In an effort to understand the phenomenon of Islamist groups in Africa and elsewhere, we went beyond sensational media headlines to the historical roots of current events as we examined groups such as Boko Haram, Seleka, and Al-Shabaab. We considered such issues as cultural values, global interests, socioeconomic conditions, and human rights.

The Community Roundtable featured Bruce Hall, Associate Professor of History, Duke University; Martin Klein, Professor Emeritus of History, University of Toronto; and Ndubueze Mbah, Assistant Professor of African History, Department of History, University at Buffalo. They each briefly summarized their symposium talks, and then exchanged reflections on the previous day’s events.

Sponsors: Alison Des Forges Memorial Committee; University at Buffalo Department of History, Department of Political Science, Humanities Institute, Office of the Vice Provost for International Education. Cosponsors: Buffalo State College’s The Anne Frank Project, Muslim Public Affairs Council.