Independence in Africa (Causes and Consequences) [Library Binding]

Kevin Shillington (Author)

Book Description

Age Level: 10 and up | Grade Level: 5 and up | Series: Causes and Consequences

Examines the beginning of the independence movement in Africa and the results once freedom was achieved.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 6-10ADespite the clear chronological organization and attractive presentation, Shillington's book suffers from the sheer scope of the material. The author surveys the history of the vast continent in this century from the end of European colonial control to the formation of the 54 separate nations of today. The chronological approach does not entirely explain the rise of African nationalism that led to 33 countries gaining independence between 1956-1966. The dizzying pace of change is reflected in the narrative; it seldom focuses on a single country or movement for more than half a page. Some countries do not even rate mention in the index. The time line, however, provides a helpful overview and backbone for further study. The text is extensively illustrated with black-and-white and full-color photographs, maps, and reproductions. Students looking for information in any detail would be advised to look elsewhere, and beyond the very short list for further reading, but this title could be useful for seeing the particulars in a larger context.AKathleen Isaacs, Edmund Burke School, Washington, DC
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 6^-9. An African history expert takes on an enormous subject--the history of Africa before, during, and after the days of colonialism--distilling it into a concise, understandable outline. He makes several central points: Western images of Africa are almost entirely negative; the imperialist nations of Germany, France, Portugal, Belgium, and Britain benefited themselves in their dealings with Africa; and the problems suffered in contemporary Africa are the direct result of the destruction of African traditions and the reshaping of disparate kingdoms into nations negotiated by Europeans. Most of the statements made in the book could be endlessly debated, but Shillington backs up his opinions with as many specific examples as the concise format of the Causes and Consequences series allows. His interesting, informative overview may lead students into deeper resources that have a narrower focus. Photographs, a glossary, and a list of further readings are included. Susan Dove Lemke

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 10 and up
  
• Library Binding: 80 pages
• Publisher: Raintree (January 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0817240608
• ISBN-13: 978-0817240608
• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 7.3 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,756,267 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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