Produced and hosted by Listervelt Middleton, For the People delivered African American history and culture every week to South Carolina ETV's viewers.
This is the first of a two-part interview with Dr. Ivan Van Sertima, author of "They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America."
Dr. Ivan Van Sertima was a literary critic, author, historian, and anthropologist. Educated at the School of Oriental and African Studies at London University and the Rutgers Graduate School, Dr. Van Sertima obtained degrees in African Studies and Anthropology.
In part one of this episode, Listervelt Middleton engaged with Dr. Ivan Van Sertima about his award-winning book "They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America." During the interview, Dr. Van Sertima described how historical narratives have often marginalized Africa, making it apparent that European perspectives have obscured Africa’s true significance. He aims to spotlight America's pre-Columbian history, mentioning that Africans played a significant role in shaping its civilizations. Through archaeological findings and maps along with African artifacts, he challenged conventional history, igniting a thought-provoking interview.
Side Notes
Born on January 26, 1935 in Guyana, South America, Dr. Ivan Van Sertima was educated at the School of Oriental and African Studies at London University and Rutgers Graduate School. He obtained degrees in African studies and anthropology. He became popularly known as a literary critic, linguist, and anthropologist.
In 1981, Dr. Van Sertima was awarded the Clarence L. Holte Prize, a prize that is awarded every two years, for his book "They Came Before Columbus: The African Presence in Ancient America."
Dr. Van Sertima lectured at universities in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, Europe, and more than 100 universities in the United States. In 1987, he was asked by Congress to appear before a Congressional Committee to challenge the Columbus myth.
Dr. Ivan Van Sertima passed away on May 25, 2009.
