Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, often referred to as "Philly," is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous city in the United States. Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by William Penn, an English Quaker, and it played a crucial role during the American Revolution. The city is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. The Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence, is also located here. The city is a major educational hub with institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University. Philadelphia has a diverse economy with strengths in education, healthcare, biotechnology, and financial services. 

The Olde Bar The Historic Bookbinder's Building - Old Original Bookbinder's Bankrupt - Aka - Olde Bar - Philadelphia Pennsylvania -

 

Adichie left Nigeria at the age of 19 to study at Drexel University in Philadelphia. This was her first stop in the United States before transferring to Eastern Connecticut State University. In 2020, Adichie was invited to deliver the commencement address at the University of Pennsylvania. Her speech was highly anticipated and celebrated for its insightful commentary on cultural issues and personal empowerment. Philadelphia has played a significant role in Adichie's educational journey and public speaking engagements, contributing to her growth as a globally recognized author and speaker.

“Acclaimed Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie to Speak at Penn’s 264th Commencement | Penn Today.” Penn Today, 11 Feb. 2020, penntoday.upenn.edu/news/commencement-speaker-2020.

“Visit Philadelphia.” Visit Philadelphia, Visit Philly, 2019, www.visitphilly.com/.

Coordinates

Latitude: 39.952583900000
Longitude: -75.165221500000

Timeline of Events Associated with Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Date Event Manage
18 Mar 2013

Publication of Checking Out

 The story follows Obinze, a Nigerian immigrant living in London, who struggles with his undocumented status after his visa expires. Obinze's journey highlights the complexities of immigration and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. He meets two Angolans who offer to arrange a marriage for him to gain citizenship, leading to a series of events that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the sacrifices made for a better life. Adichie's narrative style in "Checking Out" is poignant and insightful, capturing the nuances of Obinze's experiences and the broader issues faced by immigrants. 

While "Checking Out" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie primarily focuses on themes of immigration and identity, it can also be viewed through a feminist lens. Adichie is well-known for her feminist activism and often incorporates themes of gender and equality into her work. In "Checking Out," the character Cleotilde, who agrees to a sham marriage to help Obinze, can be seen as navigating her own challenges within a patriarchal society. Her story reflects the broader struggles women face in terms of autonomy and economic independence. 

S, Rajitha. “Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Her Feminist Activism through Storytelling.” Feminism in India, 15 Sept. 2019, feminisminindia.com/2019/09/16/chimamanda-ngozi-adichie-feminist-activism-storytelling/.