History of West Africa Since 1800

The noted African historian, Elizabeth Isichei, has written a history of modern West Africa, encompassing the most recent research and suitable for use in introductory courses at both high school and college levels. It is well illustrated with photographs and maps, and quotations from original sources add life to the narrative. The author begins with the geographic and economic state of Africa in 1800 and an examination of the importance of the slave trade. As the century progressed, certain societies—Gobir, Massina, and Senegambia among them—began to build new societies on the Islamic model. Others such as Liberia and Sierra Leone adopted western models.
With the end of the slave trade, the exploitation of mineral and agricultural resources by the European powers began. Isichei discusses the growth of trade and imperialism, the Christian missionary presence, and the gradual European political encroachment. Two chapters on the colonial experience are followed by one on nationalism before 1939. The individual struggles for independence are carefully delineated and a commentary on what the West African states can expect in the future is provided. Several case studies complete the narrative.
This informative and balanced account of the unified region of West Africa should become a standard text in introductory African history courses, as well as a reference for more advanced students and scholars interested in the most recent research and interpretation in the area.