Dr. Cheikh Anta Babou, associate professor of History at the University of Pennsylvania, will discuss “The Spread of Islam into East Africa: History, Diversity, and Trade.” Dr. Babou will particularly emphasize the deep roots of Islam in East Africa with an emphasis on the Swahili tradition, and the gradual and peaceful spread of the religion in the hinterland from the 19th century. Of particular interest will be the entanglement between trade networks and scholarly genealogies linking the Indian Ocean Coast, especially Zanzibar, with the Hadhramaut in Yemen.
Dr. Babou teaches African History and the History of Islam in Africa, focusing on mystical Islam in West Africa and Senegal, and the experience of West African Muslim immigrants in Europe and North America.
Supported by the Middle East National Resource Center, University of Pennsylvania. Introduced by David Prejsnar, assistant professor of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies.