A Bit for the French
TTMOAIUS
Black history has changed the course of history multiple times and no doubt it will continue to do so. The fall of the Apartheid in South Africa in 1994 and the work of Reverend Dr. Martin Luthor King Jr. to end segregation and racism in the U.S. changed entire nations. George Washington Carver changed the face of agriculture and how we see the peanut. Marie Van Britton Brown invented Home Security. The Tuskegee Airmen were one of the most well known squadrons in World War 2, earning respect from nations on both sides of the war. The list goes on and on, covering everything from inventions to art to athletics. In the U.S. these deeds are easily found. In France it's a bit more difficult.
So I have decided that I'm going to give you a brief crash course on some of the most recent impacts that African culture has had on the French.
Afro Trap – Afro Trap is a musical style that has taken France by storm. As you can probably tell by the name, Afro Trap blends African beats with the beats of the underground, French rap style. Most notable for rarely deviating from the original rhythms it came from, Afro Trap has quickly captured the attention of listeners all over the world. One of the largest artists of Afro Trap currently is Ngatie Abedi, who is also a professional soccer player.
Sports and Fashion – African based style has greatly impacted these two unrelated worlds. France took the last world cup with four out of 10 starting positions being of African descent. On the fashion side of things, in the last 20 years, four Miss France winners have been of African descent.
While at surface level it may not seem as though African culture can be seen in France. However, you can see its influence permeating through most parts of life. The greatest French musician, Stromae, is of Rwandan descent. The current French government spokesperson is Sibeth Ndiaye, of Senegalese descent. Throughout each piece of government, entertainment and life, people of African descent have improved it.
Alexander Nesmith is a sophomore studying communication.