Christopher Columbus and the Afrikan Holocaust: Slavery and the Rise of European Capitalism

I watched John Henrik Clarke's talks on YouTube and found them profound. Therefore, I bought his book. I read it very quickly. "Christopher Columbus and the Afrikan Holocaust: Slavery and the Rise of European Capitalism" was an absolutely fascinating read. I found the material to be extremely informative and insightful. I now have new perspectives on African and Black American history as a result of Clarke's words. I also detected sprinklings of wisdom and spiritual principles in the book. I was particularly struck by three statements: (1) "What I'm trying to look at is that the war on the African started before he got on the ship," (Clarke, 1993). (2) "Powerful people never educate you in how to take their power away from them, and their schools are not going to give you the kind of education you need. You have to make it, or take it. When you get the kind of education you need, you will discover the green fields of Africa and you won't have to go to Africa to improve Africa. Africa is where you are. You start with your community and with yourself and then you will begin to see and understand revolutionary change" (Clarke, 1993). (3) "My revolution starts with me and my memorial to the people in the Middle Passage starts right now," (Clarke, 1993). The book was definitely worth the $10.95 I spent on it. 'Christopher Columbus and the Afrikan Holocaust: Slavery and the Rise of European Capitalism,' was a treasure to be cherished.

Learned a lot from this book!

I was looking to read and understand the historical story of Columbus and the onset of enslavement. However the book focuses more on what the author's views are quoted by various sayings from other books. Disappointing read

This has to be one of the most informative, easy reading books that I have read and enjoyed from a list of books read regarding the period of slavery and the notorious slave trader Columbus. In this book you will find good detailed information on Columbus pre-slavery trade (as in the essence before it became an industry) as well as during the slavery trade. So much was put into perspective from this book. A definite eye opener and a book worth having on your shelf.

John Henrik Clarke was a great historian his work will still be read by generations to come.. I have listened to many of his lectures and it's nice to know his writing style has the same verve, wit, conviviality and intelligence while dealing with a complex matter. This has provoked me to do further studies on the subject matter. The only drawback is that intellectually it leaves you wanting more because his style is so engaging.