Nigerian Bell Pepper Stew & The White People Who Renamed African Nations

Put some respect on my name.

The story of African countries and landmark names reveals a longstanding legacy of colonial disruption and erasure. A map from 1885, drawn during the Berlin Conference, shows how European powers not only redefined borders but also imposed names, stripping away the rich, multifaceted identities of the continent’s diverse cultures. In the intricate tapestry of identity, names hold a profound significance, often reflecting more than mere labels. They are vessels of heritage and personal history. Yet, the journey of names—both individual and collective—often reveals how deeply they are intertwined with our experiences of recognition and dignity. (recipe after the jump)

What’s in a Name?

Take my name, Mennlay Golokeh Aggrey. It’s a sequence of strong syllables that maps my heritage across Mali, Liberia, Ghana, and France. Yet, this name hasn't avoided the common plight of lazy mispronunciations and misspellings, serving as a constant reminder of how names can become a battleground for respec…