Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Introduction: African politics since independence
Colonialism and colonial impact
Nationalism and the transfer of power
State and society
Political parties
Administration
The military
Political liberalisation and economic reform
Regional groupings and the Organisation of African Unity
Conclusions: ideology, the post-colonial state and development

This new updated edition of the definitive textbook on African government and politics provides comprehensive coverage of the contemporary politics of the continent set in a clear historical context.