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February 24, 2014

Africa’s Powerful Cultural Influence

Africa is the second largest continent on Earth and is widely recognized by scientists as the first place where humans lived. Therefore, it is no surprise that the history, culture, and religion of Africa continue to have an impact on people in all parts of the world even today.
Before European countries began exploring and colonizing many parts of Africa, thousands of native tribes and ethnic groups existed throughout the continent. Each of these had their own physical traits, customs, religions, and languages although some were shared amongst neighboring groups. Although the push for colonial rule destroyed some of the ethnic groups that once existed, many have managed to survive and even thrive. The slave trade that sent so many Africans to the New World against their will actually served to spread African culture around the world.

Art has always been a notable part of African culture. Architecturally, some of the most internationally known ancient works of art are found in Africa. For example, experts are still baffled by the achievements of the ancient Egyptians in the field of architecture, specifically when it comes to the Great Pyramid of Giza. African music has had a clear impact on the development of other musical genres around the world as well. The slave trade spread African rhythms to the New World where genres such as samba, salsa, jazz, reggae, and hip hop have been developed using notable elements of ancient African percussion and instrumentation. It is clear that African history, African culture, and African music have had an international impact are part of noteworthy world heritage.