How Europe Underdeveloped Africa

How Europe Underdeveloped Africa, written by Walter Rodney, is an ambitious masterwork of political economy that delves deeply into the devastating impacts of slavery and colonialism on the continent of Africa. The book outlines how these historical processes were instrumental to the development of international capitalism, arguing persuasively that African underdevelopment is neither an incidental outcome nor a feature of its geography, but rather a direct consequence of the systematic exploitation and imperial extraction by European powers.

Rodney meticulously examines the economic relationship between Africa and Europe, showing how resources and human labour were siphoned from Africa to fuel European prosperity. The narrative spans from the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade through the colonial era, and examines how these legacies continue to influence contemporary global inequalities. Far from being a mere historical account, the book provides vital insights into the ongoing economic disparities and political challenges that define Africa's place in the global order today.

This new edition of How Europe Underdeveloped Africa features a poignant foreword by renowned activist and scholar Angela Davis. Davis brings a fresh perspective to Rodney's work, highlighting its enduring relevance and its contributions to a revolutionary and feminist practice of anti-imperialism. She contextualises Rodney's findings within the broader struggle for global justice and equality, evaluating the book's impact on modern anti-colonial and feminist discourses.

Renowned for its thorough research and critical analysis, How Europe Underdeveloped Africa remains an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the roots of economic inequality and the historical forces that continue to shape the African continent. It provides a compelling case for the re-evaluation of conventional narratives of development and underdevelopment, making it a crucial read for scholars, activists, and general readers alike who are interested in the intersection of history, economics, and social justice.