Africa and War

The video explores Africa's overlooked role in WWI, highlighting the contributions and sacrifices of African and Asian soldiers. It features three artistic pieces: a musical on the SS Mendi disaster, John Akomfrah's multiscreen installation on African soldiers, and William Kentridge's multimedia performance on African porters. These works aim to correct historical narratives and emphasize the global nature of the war.

What was the significance of Africa's involvement in the First World War?

• They remained neutral throughout the war.

• They were the main suppliers of weapons.

• They provided the first and last shots of the war.

• They were the first to declare war.

What tragic event is depicted in the musical theatre piece 'Dancing the Death Drill'?

• The fall of the Berlin Wall

• The SS Mendy disaster

• The sinking of the Titanic

• The Battle of the Somme

What artistic method does John Akomfrah use to explore the role of African soldiers in the First World War?

• A live theatre performance

• A multi-screen installation

• A radio broadcast

• A single-screen documentary

What is the main theme of William Kentridge's performance piece 'The Head and the Load'?

• The technological advancements in warfare

• The political alliances during the war

• The role of African porters and carriers

• The economic impact of the war

What emotional response does Kentridge's piece aim to evoke in its audience?

• A sense of nostalgia

• A feeling of anger

• A sense of confusion

• A strong emotional resonance

What does the proverb 'The head and the load of the troubles of the neck' signify in Kentridge's piece?

• The weight of financial debt

• The physical and historical burdens carried by Africans

• The burden of leadership

• The challenges of modern technology

What is the broader message conveyed by the contemporary artists about the First World War?

• It was primarily about technological advancements.

• It was a global event with contributions from diverse groups.

• It was a war that had no lasting impact.

• It was solely a European conflict.