Final answer:
An atlas can teach about the geopolitics, history, and physical geography of Africa, as well as how perceptions of the continent by Europeans, including colonial impressions and misconceptions, have evolved over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Someone could learn a great deal about Africa from an atlas. Firstly, they could explore the geopolitics and historical contexts that have shaped Africa, such as colonial borders, the spread of religions like Christianity and Islam, and the Bantu migrations.
Additionally, an atlas can provide insights into the physical geography of Africa, like the diversity of landscapes including the Kalahari Desert and Lake Victoria, and the wealth of languages and cultures present on the continent.
Atlases like those created by Abraham Ortelius or Heinrich Bünting often included a mix of accurate information and European perceptions of Africa, demonstrating historical imaginings and misunderstandings.
Even discriminatory and negative descriptions by writers like Leo Africanus highlighted the continent's place in European consciousness. Over time, these documents can help us trace how European ideas about Africa evolved and how they contrasted with the reality of African societies.
Furthermore, by examining maps and atlases, one could analyze Africa's socio-economic development, understand the role of multinational corporations in exploiting African resources, and recognize the need for an accurate representation of the continent and its people.