This history by celebrated Africanist David Birmingham begins in 1820 with the Portuguese attempt to create a third, African, empire after the virtual loss of Asia and America. In the nineteenth century the most valuable resource extracted from Angola was agricultural labor, first as privately owned slaves and later as conscript workers. The colony was managed by a few marine officers, by several hundred white political convicts, and by a couple of thousand black Angolans who had adopted Portuguese language and culture. The hub was the harbor city of Luanda which grew in the twentieth century to be a dynamic metropolis of several million people. The export of labor was gradually replaced when an agrarian revolution enabled white Portuguese immigrants to drive black Angolan laborers to produce sugar cane, cotton, maize and above all coffee. During the twentieth century Congo copper supplemented this wealth, by gem-quality diamonds, and by offshore oil. Although much of the countryside retained its dollar-a-day peasant economy, new wealth generated conflict which pitted white against black, north against south, coast against highland, American allies against Russian allies. The generation of warfare finally ended in 2002 when national reconstruction could begin on Portuguese colonial foundations.

This history by celebrated Africanist David Birmingham begins in 1820 with the Portuguese attempt to create a third, African, empire after the virtual loss of Asia and America. In the nineteenth century the most valuable resource extracted from Angola was agricultural labor, first as privately owned slaves and later as conscript workers. The colony was managed by a few marine officers, by several hundred white political convicts, and by a couple of thousand black Angolans who had adopted Portuguese language and culture. The hub was the harbor city of Luanda which grew in the twentieth century to be a dynamic metropolis of several million people. The export of labor was gradually replaced when an agrarian revolution enabled white Portuguese immigrants to drive black Angolan laborers to produce sugar cane, cotton, maize and above all coffee. During the twentieth century Congo copper supplemented this wealth, by gem-quality diamonds, and by offshore oil. Although much of the countryside retained its dollar-a-day peasant economy, new wealth generated conflict which pitted white against black, north against south, coast against highland, American allies against Russian allies. The generation of warfare finally ended in 2002 when national reconstruction could begin on Portuguese colonial foundations.

Multiparty elections in 2008 will, it is hoped, cement a transition towards peaceful stability in Angola, which has suffered from over forty years of violent civil war. This book looks at Angola's difficult past and then discuss its move away from hegemonic domination towards a multiparty political system and a civil society.

Michael Barr explores the complex and covert networks of power at work in one of the world's most prosperous countries - the city-state of Singapore. He argues that the contemporary networks of power are a deliberate project initiated and managed by Lee Kuan Yew - former prime minister and Singapore's 'founding father' - designed to empower himself and his family. Barr identifies the crucial institutions of power - including the country's sovereign wealth funds, and the government-linked companies - together with five critical features that form the key to understanding the nature of the networks. He provides an assessment of possible shifts of power within the elite in the wake of Lee Kuan Yew's son, Lee Hsien Loong, assuming power, and considers the possibility of a more fundamental democratic shift in Singapore's political system.

Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Angola in this amazing text-only book. "The History of Angola" takes you on an immersive exploration of a nation filled with resilience, diversity, and enduring spirit. From ancient origins to modern-day evolution, this book offers a comprehensive narrative that unveils the intricate tapestry of Angola's past. Journey through the annals of time as you encounter the early inhabitants, the rise and fall of kingdoms, the arrival of Portuguese explorers, and the profound impact of the transatlantic slave trade. Witness pivotal moments in Angola's history, including the struggles for independence, the civil war, and the birth of the modern nation. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Angolan cuisine, and explore the nation's remarkable wildlife and biodiversity. Discover the historical significance of cities like Luanda and Benguela, and rediscover ancient roots in Mbanza Kongo. Dive into the unique culture of the Himba people in Cunene and explore must-visit cultural sites that showcase Angola's cultural treasures and natural wonders. This text-only book offers a deep and informative journey through Angola's past and present. It's an invitation to delve into a world of historical depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty, all within the confines of text that allows your imagination to paint the vivid pictures. If you're a history enthusiast, a traveler at heart, or simply someone eager to learn about the diverse cultures of the world, "The History of Angola" is the perfect addition to your reading collection. Join us on this literary voyage and uncover the untold stories of Angola that have shaped its remarkable identity. Buy your copy today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Africa.

Draws on the full range of literature about Africa as well as evidence provided by archaeology, oral traditions, language relationships and social institutions. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

This comprehensive overview traces the evolution of modern Mozambique, from its early modern origins in the Indian Ocean trading system and the Portuguese maritime empire to the fifteen-year civil war that followed independence and its continued after-effects. Though peace was achieved in 1992 through international mediation, Mozambique's remarkable recovery has shown signs of stalling. Malyn Newitt explores the historical roots of Mozambican disunity and hampered development, beginning with the divisive effects of the slave trade, the drawing of colonial frontiers in the 1890s and the lasting particularities of the north, centre and south, inherited from the compartmentalized approach of concession companies. Following the nationalist guerrillas' victory against the Portuguese in 1975, these regional divisions resurfaced in a civil war pitting the south against the north and centre, over attempts at far-reaching socioeconomic change. The settlement of the early 1990s is now under threat from a revived insurgency, and the ghosts of the past remain. This book seeks to distill this complex history, and to understand why, twenty-five years after the Peace Accord, Mozambicans still remain among the poorest people in the world.