The State of Africa: A History of Fifty Years of Independence (The State of Africa: A History of Fifty Years of Independence - Martin Meredith)

Member Name: tomprosser

Product:	The State of Africa: A History of Fifty Years of Independence - Martin Meredith
Date:	13/07/09 (15 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: indpeth knowledge

Disadvantages: not an easy read

The State of African is an excellent book that covers the recent colourful history of a whole continent. I studied an African Studies degree and this book was one of the essential books in my reading lists. It is difficult to cover the whole last fifty years of history of 53 countries in a single book but this book does a great job at covering all of the major issues and events that have occurred. There are major international issues like the influence of Cold War that have shaped African politics and history, it is important to understand these influences of African countries from other countries and how they affected rise and fall of dictators and international conflicts. The book covers these issues in depth and with great detail whilst still being a very readable book. This book covers so much that i did not attempt to read it in one go, it is more of a reference book that can be dipped in to and used to help direct you to where to find more information using its references.
This book is very relevant today as many of the conflicts and disputes result from the recent history of Africa. If you are studying or interested in Africa this book is a great resource.

Summary: great resource to help understand the complex recent history of Africa