ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the philosophy of the Pan-African conferences 1900–1945 and situates Pan-Africanism in a European context. It presents Pan-Africanism as part of European history and realities and as a conceptual framework for the African diaspora in Europe. The chapter calls for reframing European histories and realities in ways that are neither racially exclusive nor nationalistic. It seeks to sift out the core, defining features of the Pan-Africanism of the European conferences 1900–1945 while not aspiring to give a universal definition of Pan-Africanism. The philosophy and history of the Pan-African conferences 1900–1945 may act as a corrective to Eurocentric and nationalist historiographies as well as help situate the African diaspora in Europe. As subjects, residents and citizens—albeit never full and equal citizens—of European nation-states and extended colonial states. For a Europe that aspires to racial inclusion, equality and justice—the Pan-African conferences 1900–1945 may hold a mirror to its history of racial distinctions, discrimination, exploitation and evasion.
