Islam and Decolonization in Africa: The Political Engagement of a West African Muslim Community

Abstract

The article discusses the role that Islam played in the decolonization of West Africa, including Senegal, from the mid 1950s through the early 1970s. Particular focus is given to the role that the Senegalese Sufi Shaykh Ibrahim Niasse played in encouraging political participation within West African Muslim communities, including for the cause of African nationalism and sovereignty.