The Significance of W.E.B. Du Bois’s Decolonial Geopolitics

Abstract

W.E.B. Du Bois was one of the most important intellectuals and activists of the twentieth century. His influence continues to range widely today, from sociological and postcolonial theory to urban and critical race studies. This article suggests that Du Bois was also a significant geopolitical thinker and actor, especially concerning the intersections of race, empire, and White supremacy, though to date this fact has not been recognized by political geographers. We describe Du Bois’s geopolitical insights and activism and make the case for greater engagement by political geographers with the decolonial geopolitics of Du Bois and other early postcolonial thinkers, activists, and politicians of color.