Fortunes of Africa

In this vast and vivid panorama of history, Martin Meredith, bestselling author of The State of Africa, follows the fortunes of Africa over a period of 5,000 years. With compelling narrative, he traces the rise and fall of ancient kingdoms and empires; the spread of Christianity and Islam; the enduring quest for gold and other riches; the exploits of explorers and missionaries; and the impact of European colonisation. He examines, too, the fate of modern African states and concludes with a glimpse into their future. This is history on an epic scale.

Martin Meredith is a journalist, biographer and historian who has written extensively on Africa and its recent history. He is the author of many books about the continent, including The State of Africa: A History of the Continent Since Independence; Diamonds, Gold and War: The Making of South Africa; The Fortunes of Africa: A 5000-Year History of Wealth, Greed and Endeavour;  and Mandela: A Biography. He lives near Oxford.