This paper explores the historical origins of Afrocentric thought. A set of ideas celebrating the African origins, history and character of black people, Afrocentrism is sometimes seen as a long-standing tradition in black thought. This paper argues that Afrocentrism is a relatively recent invention, and must be seen as the product of a specific historical and cultural context. Inspired by the cultural nationalist movement of the late 1970s, Afrocentrism is modern phenomenon that can and should be distinguished from earlier variants of Black Nationalism.