Includes bibliographical references (p. [303]-328) and index.

A tradition of myths and stereotypes -- The evolution of early African societies -- Early kingdoms and city-states -- Africa and the world, 1400-1850 -- The expansion of Africa -- Repatriation and the development of a pan-Africanist tradition -- Politics and state-building I: the Guinea coast and forest regions -- Politics and state-building II: the Sudan -- Politics and state-building III: central and southern Africa -- Politics and trade in East Africa -- The scramble and partition -- African diplomacy, resistance, and rebellion -- The European colonizers: policies and practices -- The struggle for independence -- The transformation in southern Africa: South Africa and Namibia -- The quest for unity -- Africa and contemporary issues.