The fortunes of Africa have changed dramatically in the fifty years since the independence era began. As Europe’s colonial powers withdrew, dozens of new states were launched amid much jubilation and to the world’s applause. The circumstances seemed auspicious. Africa was a continent rich in mineral resources. Its economic potential was huge. On the international stage, African states excited the attention of the world’s rival power blocs: in the Cold War era, Africa was considered too valuable a prize to lose. Yet one country after another was soon mired in corruption, violence and warfare. Few states managed to escape the downward spiral. Even after decades of foreign aid, no other area of the world today arouses such a sense of foreboding. So what went wrong? In this riveting and authoritative history – now updated – Martin Meredith examines and explains the myriad problems that Africa has faced in the past half-century, focusing upon key personalities, events and themes of the independence era. With compelling analysis he brings this new edition into the twenty first century, exploring Africa’s enduring struggles for democracy, the corruption of its ruling elites and the rising influence of China. It is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the continent’s plight and its hopes for a brighter future.