The decolonization of the European colonies in Africa and Asia was perhaps the most important historical process of the 20th century. Within less than two decades from 1947 to the mid-1960s several colonial empires disappeared and scores of new nations became independent. Altogether it had taken more than three centuries to expand and consolidate these empires, yet it took less than twenty years for colonialism to become an anachronism.

This essential companion to the process of decolonization includes thematic chapters as well as a detailed chronology, a thorough glossary, biographies of key figures, suggestions for further reading, maps and a guide to sources. Examining decolonization in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific this guide explores:

? The global context for decolonization
? Nationalism and the rise of resistance movements
? Resistance by white settlers to moves towards independence
? Hong Kong and Macau and decolonization in the late 20th century
? Debates surrounding neo-colonialism, and the rise of 'development' projects and aid
? The legacy of colonialism in law, education, administration and the military

An invaluable resource for students and scholars of the colonial and post-colonial eras, this volume is an indispensable guide to the reshaping of the world in the 20th century.