Cultures of Decolonisation ─ Transnational Productions and Practices, 1945-70

What were the distinctive cultures of decolonisation that emerged between 1945 and 1970? What can they tell us about the complexities of the 'end of empire' as a process? How did they reflect and influence the processes of dramatic geopolitical change wrought by the dismantling of European empires?

Cultures of decolonisation brings together studies of visual, literary and material cultures within one volume in order to explore these questions. The contributions reveal the diverse ways in which cultures were active in wider political, economic and social change, working as crucial gauges, microcosms and agents of decolonisation. The collection demonstrates the transnational character of decolonisation and its cultures, thereby illustrating the value of comparison between different sorts of cultural forms and different geographical locations in understanding the nature of this dramatic and wide-reaching geopolitical process. By illustrating the value of engaging with the complexities of decolonisation as enacted and experienced by a broad range of actors beyond 'flag independence' and the realm of high politics, Cultures of decolonisation makes an important contribution to the theoretical, methodological and empirical diversification of the historiography of the end of empire.

Individual chapters focus on architecture, theatre, museums, heritage sites, fine art and interior design, alongside institutions such as artists' groups, language agencies and the Royal Mint, in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering a range of disciplinary perspectives, these contributions provide revealing case studies for those researching decolonisation at all levels across the humanities and social sciences.

Ruth Craggs is a Lecturer in Cultural and Historical Geography at King's College, London

Claire Wintle is a Senior Lecturer in History of Art and Design, University of Brighton