The book is designed to inform, engage its readers, and stimulate discussions. Robert O. Collins and his collaborators have included authoritative statements and analysis by renowned scholars. A distinctive characteristic of the anthology is the range of interpretations of classic and recent research. This book offers a full spectrum of emotionally charged theories. Each section presents a set of conflicting arguments to show the state of debates on these highly controversial issues. Extensive commentary by the editors leads the reader through this treasury of theories and dramatically highlights the development of the field. The themes comprise the Partition of Africa, Colonial Rule in Africa, Collaboration or Resistence to European Rule, Educating the African, Forging a National Identity, and Exploitation or Development.