Why Africa is called a dark continent?

I don’t know any exact answer but I think the name Dark Continent was given by the Europeans at a time when much of Europe and Asia knew about each other through trade and war. Africa was relatively unknown and was covered with dense and hostile vegetation. Being tropical in nature, it was difficult for Europeans to explore with ease. Also the people were quite backward in their approach towards life and knowledge.

I think it was from the African's dark sense of humour! haha As for electricity, it was called the 'Dark Continent' before electricity was invented! No, I think you are right in your first guess, dark people live there, except for the millions who live in North Africa - Egypt, Lybia, etc. who are a lighter shade of 'dark'.

The great explorers were surprised to see black people in Africa and they found the place very backward. Nowadays people know that the black skin color is due to the sun. These people have dark skins because they live in hot countries. Many black people live in my home country which is excellent. I love to live in a multi cultural society. I think all people are equal and should be treated kindly. The name 'The Dark Continent' came before electricity was invented. Nowadays people think of Africa as being a wonderful continent. In Australia Victoria is known as the Garden State. New South Wales is known as the Premier State because the great explorers found it first. So these are past nick names that have stuck.

I think those who call Africa as "dark continent" is because they believe Africa can't achieve a bright future or prosperity in the years ahead like the much more advance western nations. The term may make some sense if you notice the daily level of violence take place among grouping in each African country, number of natural disasters like famine, drought, starvation, ethnic cleansing, civil war and vicious cycle of arms power struggle among various tribal leaders, militias and politicians, you may think "dark continent" is quite a suitable term for Africa after all. lol!