Edward W. Blyden’s intellectual tradition: the place of ‘race’ and religion

ABSTRACT This article reflects on the place of religion and “race” in Edward W. Blyden’s thought and praxis. It is discussed and analysed against the background of an Africana intellectual tradition and aspects regarding sovereignty and resistance. On the one hand, it examines the views of Blyden concerning the place of “race” and religion in relation to recurrent elements within the Africana intellectual tradition. On the other, it explores Blyden’s thoughts on “race” and religion with regard to historical context and the influence of sovereignty and resistance. It explores how historical conditions shaped Blyden’s ideas relating to Black emancipation, and, specifically, how to interpret the multiple intellectual transformations during his life and how this changed his thinking. The framework used in this article is an interpretation of the Africana intellectual tradition, which consists of the recurrent elements of “race,” slavery, colonialism, humiliation, dignity and memory. It uses this analytical framework to examine some of Blyden’s more notable works. Examining the place of “race” and religion, intellectual traditionl and sovereignty and resistance helps us understand the emergence, development and underpinnings of Blyden’s thought, giving us more insight into his ideas and the ideas of thinkers who followed in his footsteps.