Chinua Achebe

Chinua Achebe passed away on March 21, 2013, in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, at the age of 82. His death marked the end of an era in African literature, but his legacy continues through his influential works and the many writers he inspired.

In 2007, Chinua Achebe was awarded the Man Booker International Prize for his contribution to world literature. The prize recognized his body of work, which has had a profound impact on African literature and inspired countless writers across the globe.

In 1990, Chinua Achebe was involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. Following the accident, he moved to the United States for medical treatment and rehabilitation, where he continued his academic and literary work.

In 1987, Chinua Achebe published 'Anthills of the Savannah', his first novel in over 20 years. The book was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and is considered one of his most mature works, exploring themes of power, corruption, and the complexities of post-colonial African states.

In 1975, Chinua Achebe delivered the lecture 'An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad's Heart of Darkness' at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The lecture critiqued Joseph Conrad's portrayal of Africa and Africans, sparking significant debate and discussion in literary circles.

In 1967, during the Nigerian Civil War, Chinua Achebe co-founded the Citadel Press with Nigerian poet Christopher Okigbo. The press aimed to promote African literature and provide a platform for African writers to express their perspectives and cultural narratives.

In 1961, Chinua Achebe married Christie Okoli, a fellow Nigerian. They had four children together. Christie was a constant support in Achebe's life and career, and their partnership was marked by mutual respect and shared cultural and intellectual interests.

In 1958, Chinua Achebe published his first novel, 'Things Fall Apart'. The novel is considered a classic of modern world literature and has been translated into numerous languages. It explores the effects of colonialism on traditional African society and is a staple in literature courses worldwide.

In 1948, Chinua Achebe enrolled at University College, Ibadan, which was then affiliated with the University of London. He initially studied medicine but soon switched to English, history, and theology, which better suited his interests and talents in literature and storytelling.

In 1944, Chinua Achebe was admitted to Government College Umuahia, a prestigious secondary school in Nigeria. The school was known for its rigorous academic standards and had a significant influence on Achebe's intellectual development and his future career as a writer.

Chinua Achebe was born on November 16, 1930, in Ogidi, Nigeria. He was the fifth of six children in his family. His parents, Isaiah Okafo Achebe and Janet Anaenechi Iloegbunam, were devout Christians and his father worked as a catechist for the Church Missionary Society.