In this show, produced and hosted by Listervelt Middleton, For the People delivered African American history and culture every week to South Carolina ETV’s viewers. Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, a noted literary critic and historian, passionately discusses the significant and often overlooked role of Africans in pre-Columbian America during an insightful interview, effectively challenging conventional historical narratives that routinely marginalize the contributions of Africa and its peoples.
Through a careful examination of a variety of archaeological findings and artifacts, he meticulously presents compelling evidence to support his theories, asserting that Africans not only traveled to the Americas long before Columbus but also made a lasting and profound impact on the development of American civilization.
This impact is prominently highlighted in his thoughtful response to Listervelt’s question about the connections between Africans and early America, where he elaborates on the cultural exchanges, technological advancements, and agricultural practices that were likely influenced by African societies, thus urging a reevaluation of history to recognize the rich contributions of Africans to the New World.
Now if you actually watched the second video, then you will know why I posted the video below.
Shared on the 50th anniversary of the 1970 Ra II expedition, which famously sailed from Morocco to Barbados in an impressive 57 days, this groundbreaking journey demonstrated the intriguing possibility of pre-Columbian contact between the Mediterranean and the Americas. The expedition was noteworthy for its international crew, which included skilled members from various countries, all united in their quest for discovery while sailing proudly under the UN flag, symbolizing global cooperation and understanding. Directed by the renowned Thor Heyerdahl and Lennart Ehrenborg, the film was brought to life by cinematographers Kei Ohara and Carlo Mauri, who captured the essence of the adventure and the challenges faced by the crew. This extraordinary cinematic work was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, a prestigious recognition that marked Heyerdahl’s second nomination after his previous triumph with “Kon-Tiki” in 1951, a testament to his lasting influence on the field of documentary filmmaking and exploration. The Ra II expedition not only enriched our understanding of ancient maritime history but also encouraged further discussion on the interconnectedness of different cultures throughout history.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 