Did Christianity Create Morality? Africa and Europe’s History Challenge the Claim

Africa had established kingdoms, cities, trade networks and systems of governance long before European arrival. Accounts by scholars such as Al-Ya'qubi, Al-Bakri and Ibn Battuta describe the wealth, administration and social life of African societies, including Ghana and Mali. These histories challenge the idea that Africa was waiting for Europe to bring civilisation. Europe also has a long history of violence and persecution under Christian rule. Religious authorities and Christian societies were involved in events including inquisitions, executions and witch trials. Christianity’s presence did not prevent these abuses, just as Africa’s history cannot be reduced to its own wars and injustices. Slavery existed in precolonial Africa, and some African rulers and merchants supplied captives to trading networks. But European powers greatly expanded the Atlantic slave trade and profited from it. In 1897, British forces invaded Benin City, burned it and looted thousands of artworks. I believe these histories matter when we discuss how colonialism disrupted African societies and shaped what remains of their past. I am not arguing that Africa was perfect. I am arguing that the same standards should be applied to Africa, Europe and the Arab world. Enslaved Africans resisted for their own reasons, including family separation, exploitation and the denial of their humanity. Christian abolitionists contributed to the struggle, alongside formerly enslaved people, secular reformers and political movements. Christianity took part in human history, but morality and human progress did not begin with or belong exclusively to any religion.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.