Half of a Yellow Sun

Does Adichie depict the Biafran secession as doomed from the start or as a desperate bid for survival by the Igbos? Does the history of Nigeria and its support from Britain during the war make the ill-fated defeat of Biafra inevitable? How might this story and events in history inform our current society?

Teaching Suggestion: Consider helping students understand the overall political picture of the world at that time with this History Matters video. Noting the essential role of oil in the region of Biafra can lead to a deeper understanding of why Britain was so invested in the area. Consider asking students for their thoughts and opinions on how Nigeria or nations in similar predicaments might avoid a similar crisis. BBC’s article “How First Coup Still Haunts Nigeria 50 Years Later” may be beneficial in providing insight into this topic.