Crazy thing is that the Europeans are the reason why Africa goes hard against homosexuality when they brought the Bible over to colonize
The statement is partially accurate, but it oversimplifies a complex historical and cultural issue. While European colonization and the introduction of Christianity did play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards homosexuality in Africa, the reality is more nuanced.
## European Influence on African Attitudes Towards Homosexuality
**Colonial Impact**
European colonizers, particularly the British, introduced and enforced anti-homosexuality laws in their African colonies[4]. These laws were often based on Victorian-era morality and were codified in penal codes that criminalized same-sex relations[2]. Many of these laws remain in place today, long after the end of colonial rule[4].
**Religious Influence**
The spread of Christianity, especially fundamentalist interpretations, significantly impacted African views on sexuality[4]. Missionaries often worked alongside colonizers, introducing Western Christian values that condemned homosexuality[3]. This religious influence has had a lasting effect, with Christianity growing from 9% of sub-Saharan Africa's population in 1910 to 63% by 2010[4].
## Pre-Colonial African Attitudes
It's important to note that same-sex relations were not universally taboo in pre-colonial Africa:
- Many pre-colonial African cultures had diverse sexual practices and identities[2].
- There is historical evidence of same-sex relations being practiced and sometimes accepted in traditional African societies[2].
- No African country prior to colonization had laws persecuting LGBT individuals specifically because of their sexuality[4].
## The Myth of Homosexuality as "Un-African"
Ironically, the idea that homosexuality is "un-African" or a "white disease" is itself a product of colonial influence[4]. This misconception has been perpetuated by some African leaders, despite historical evidence to the contrary[2].
## Contemporary Situation
Today, many African countries maintain strict anti-homosexuality laws, often justified on religious or cultural grounds[6]. However, it's crucial to recognize that these attitudes are largely a legacy of colonial-era laws and imported religious beliefs, rather than traditional African values[2][4].
In conclusion, while European colonization and the introduction of Christianity did significantly influence African attitudes towards homosexuality, it's an oversimplification to say they are the sole reason for current anti-homosexuality sentiments. The issue is complex, involving a mix of colonial legacy, religious influence, and evolving cultural norms.
Citations:
[1]
Can We Trust the ‘Colonialist Bible’?
[2]
Did Europe Bring Homophobia to Africa? - AAIHS
[3]
[4]
African sexuality and the legacy of imported homophobia
[5]
https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1047&context=africana_studies_conf
[6]
Fake history, misunderstanding colonial legacies, and the demonization of homosexuality in Africa | Democracy in Africa
[7]
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=7040&context=doctoral
[8]
https://www.thecoli.com/threads/africa-trolling-homosexuality-will-never-not-be-funny.1064916/page-3
[9]
Was Religion a Tool for Colonialism in Africa?
[10]
https://scholarblogs.emory.edu/viol...alism-civilization-christianity-and-commerce/
? I think the answer is obvious.
Figure of speech
