Originally published as a revised edition in 1967, this book covers an aspect of Senegalese history of great importance not only for the student of French Colonial policy but also for those interested in the development of nationalism in French-speaking Africa. Senegal was the only French colony in Africa where any sustained attempt was made to implement the much-discussed policy of assimilation. In a concise and authoritative study, the author assesses the effects of this unique experiment in colonial rule and examines the reasons for its failure and repudiation by both France and Senegal, and the marks it left on the latter.
Preface. 1. Introduction 2. French Policy in the 19th Century 3. French Reaction Against Assimilation 4. Reforms 5. African Reaction Against Assimilation 6. Towards Independence 7. The French in Dakar 8. The Senegalese 9. Independent Senegal.
Biography
Michael Crowder worked for most of his adult life in West africa, mainly in Nigeria. He was visiting Professor at the University of Lagos, Professor of History at Ahmadu Bello University and founder of the Centre of Nigerial Cultural Studies. He was Director of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ife and visiting lecturer at the UCLA Berkeley and Columbia University. In 1964 he was made an Officer of the National Order of Senegal.
