While home to diverse and dynamic societies, Africa is often misunderstood and defined by stereotypes and vague generalities. In particular, beset by war, famine and poverty, the continent has long been regarded as "the hopeless continent". This course is designed to give students a firm grasp of various topics and debates in the history of the African continent since independence from an interdisciplinary perspective. Importantly, the course focuses not only the review of major incidents, but also the exploration of preconceptions and misconceptions in understanding the African past. Students will leave the course with not only the ability to develop their own perspective on African issues but also with the tools necessary for them to be informed citizens and critical consumers of information relating to the African continent.