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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Social Class Conversion: Socioeconomic Status of Early Christian Converts in Africa
Author:Asafo, Dziedzorm Reuben
Year:1997
Periodical:Nordic Journal of African Studies
Volume:6
Issue:1
Pages:81-97
Language:English
Geographic terms:Subsaharan Africa
Africa
Subjects:Christianity
religious conversion
social classes
History and Exploration
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
Religion and Witchcraft
External link:https://njas.fi/njas/article/view/662/485
Abstract:This paper examines the inception of Christianity in sub-Saharan Africa, dealing in particular with the question of what class of people were first and foremost converted to the new religion. Was it kings and nobles in the African kingdoms, or was it the common people? Emerging from this are two opposing views: that the pioneer converts were mainly traditional rulers, whose influence was essential to the growth of the religion on the continent; or that the first converts were mainly commoners, especially slaves and outcasts or rebels against their traditional religions. The paper discusses both views as they relate to socioeconomic determinants. The author concludes that both the 'royal conversion' and the 'masses conversion' hypotheses are correct depending on the historical stage of Christian expansion in Africa one is talking about, the predominant Christian missionary groups at work in that era, as well as the social structure existing in a particular ethnic group. Bibliogr., notes, ref.
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