Africa is a resource-rich region, comprising 53 states. Endemic poverty, pervasive corruption, patronage and ethnic cleavages are often used to describe the entire region. Yet, it is inaccurate to paint the region with such a broad brush. Within Africa, there is diversity as some states perform better than others on many politico-economic indicators. Thematically, this course examines the complexities of politics in Africa. Specifically, we will explore the interaction of political culture, institutions, and domestic and international actors and the political outcomes they produce in African countries.