S4 E16: Thiaroye 1944: More than a colonial massacre... an impossible mourning!

S4 E16: Thiaroye 1944: More than a colonial massacre... an impossible mourning!

Author: Dr Teju Baba December 16, 2019 Duration: 7:23

01 December 1944. We are a few kilometers away from Dakar. The surrounding villages are encircled. It is 5.30 in the morning in a French military camp. Tanks are put in place. Horses too. And finally, a group of armed soldiers is getting ready. Looks like a firing squad.

A first burst leaves. Then another one... totally disarmed soldiers fall by tens, by the hundreds even.

This is not a Ridley Scott movie. No, it is the story of a group of soldiers, Senegalese skirmishers who had just returned from the second world war. What exactly happened that morning?

Hello and welcome to a Sankofa which is celebrating with the families of these unidentifed skirmishers, the 75th anniversary of a massacre whose circumstances and statistics are kept well hidden by french army since 1944. Here is the story of the Thiaroye colonial massacre.


Dr. Teju Baba hosts My African Cliches (English), a podcast that moves through time much like the Sankofa bird-looking thoughtfully at the past while steadily progressing forward. Each episode is a journey into the layers of African history, culture, and society, designed to challenge oversimplified narratives and uncover the continent's profound complexity. You’ll hear detailed explorations of specific events, figures, and cultural movements that are often glossed over or misunderstood, connecting historical roots to contemporary realities. This isn't just a recounting of dates and names; it's an engaging conversation about how centuries of rich, diverse experiences shape modern life across Africa. By unpacking these deep histories, the podcast provides essential context, helping listeners move beyond superficial stereotypes. Tune in for a nuanced and enlightening perspective that honors Africa's glorious past and its dynamic present, all within a single, thoughtfully produced podcast. Dr. Baba’s expertise guides you through these stories, making each episode a step toward a more informed and respectful understanding of a continent whose story is still being written.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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