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Basil Davidson

    November 9, 1914 – July 9, 2010

    This British historian and writer is a leading authority on African history, with particular expertise on Portuguese Africa before the 1974 Carnation Revolution. His works delve into the themes of colonialism, the emancipation movements of African peoples, and a critical assessment of the impact of modern nation-states on the continent. He emphasizes pre-colonial African achievements and the devastating effects of the transatlantic slave trade. His writings, valued for their deep insight and unbiased approach, are required reading in many British universities, establishing him as a globally recognized expert in African history.

    Basil Davidson
    West Africa before the Colonial Era
    Africa in History
    Africa in Modern History
    The African Slave Trade
    Discovering Africa's Past
    No Fist Is Big Enough to Hide the Sky
    • 2021
    • 2017

      No Fist Is Big Enough to Hide the Sky stands as a key text in the history of the eleven-year struggle against Portuguese rule in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde. Though perhaps less well known than the struggles in Angola and Mozambique, the liberation war waged by the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) easily ranks alongside those conflicts as an example of an African independence movement triumphing against overwhelming odds. Basil Davidson, a leading authority on Portuguese Africa who witnessed many of these events first hand, draws on his own extensive experience in the country as well as the PAIGC archives to provide a detailed and rigorous analysis of the conflict. The book also provides one of the earliest accounts of the assassination of the PAIGC's founder, Amilcar Cabral, and documents the movement's remarkable success in recovering from the death of its leader and in eventually attaining independence. Featuring a preface by Cape Verde's first president, Aristides Pereira, and a foreword by Cabral himself, No Fist is Big Enough to Hide the Sky remains an invaluable resource for the study both of the region and of African liberation struggles as a whole.

      No Fist Is Big Enough to Hide the Sky
    • 2015

      Modern Africa

      A Social and Political History

      • 312 pages
      • 11 hours of reading

      The book explores Africa's social and political history throughout the twentieth century, tracing its journey from the colonial era through liberation movements to independence and beyond. Basil Davidson provides a comprehensive overview of the continent's transformation, highlighting key events and developments that shaped modern Africa.

      Modern Africa
    • 1998

      West Africa before the Colonial Era

      A History to 1850

      • 272 pages
      • 10 hours of reading
      3.8(26)Add rating

      The book explores the rich history and diverse cultures of West Africa, emphasizing the region's significance in shaping global narratives. It delves into the impact of colonialism, the resilience of local communities, and the vibrant traditions that continue to thrive. Through detailed analysis and engaging storytelling, it presents a nuanced understanding of West Africa's past and its ongoing influence in contemporary society, making it an essential read for those interested in African studies and history.

      West Africa before the Colonial Era
    • 1995

      Africa in History

      • 480 pages
      • 17 hours of reading
      3.8(18)Add rating

      History of Africa tracing its inner growth and world wide significance that also includes recent changes in South Africa.

      Africa in History
    • 1994

      Modern Africa

      • 312 pages
      • 11 hours of reading
      3.9(45)Add rating

      Basil Davidson's famous book -- now updated in a welcome Third Edition -- reviews the social and political history of Africa in the twentieth century. It takes the reader from the colonial era through the liberation movements to independence and beyond. It faces squarely the disappointments and breakdowns that have dulled the early successes of the post-colonial era; yet, for all the sorrows and uncertainties of Africa today, Basil Davidson shows how much has been achieved since decolonization, and the mood of his new final chapter is hopeful and buoyant.

      Modern Africa
    • 1976

      Ghana

      An African Portrait

      • 159 pages
      • 6 hours of reading
      Ghana