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An Historian’s Theory of Social Change

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 June 2019

Gregory Mann
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Abstract:

The article argues that the concept of “claims-making” has been an important and influential thread in the work of Frederick Cooper. It explores the utility and advantages – as well as the characteristic rigor – of this theory of social change and what it implies. It then turns to the potential limits of its adoption within Africanist historiography and African Studies more broadly.

Résumé:

Cet article affirme que le concept de “revendication” a été un fil conducteur important et influent dans les travaux de Frederick Cooper. Il explore l’utilité et les avantages - ainsi que la rigueur caractéristique - de cette théorie du changement social et de ce qu’elle implique. Il aborde ensuite les limites potentielles de son adoption dans le cadre de l’historiographie africaniste et des études africanistes au sens large.

Type
Frederick Cooper and the Historiography of Africa
Information
History in Africa , Volume 47 , June 2020 , pp. 75 - 81
Copyright
© African Studies Association 2019

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