Encyclopedia of African History

Engaging the efforts of 330 authors (about one-third of whom are African) and 35 advisors, editor Shillington tackled the task of compiling this reference for researchers, teachers, and serious general readers. Coverage encompasses well-established topics in addition to social, economic, linguistic, anthropological, and political subjects undergoing new analysis. The whole continent (not just sub-Sahara) is addressed, from earliest times to the present, and the reference is grounded in the more enlightened approaches to African history that began after World War II. Three volumes contain some 1,100 scholarly entries (with references), including factual narrative, thematic, and analytical discussion. Most are about 1,000 words in length; some longer ones of 3,000-5,000 words address broader themes. Small b&w maps--100 in all--depict each of the 55 modern states as well as themes such as languages, peoples, and historical empires. Entries are arranged alphabetically, but cross-references afford deeper access as do the thematic listings included in each volume and the comprehensive index provided in volume 3. Fitzroy Dearborn is an imprint of Taylor & Francis. Annotation c2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)