This book provides an introduction to Africa -- covering its physical attributes, history, social structure, and culture. It emphasizesnorms, values, and historical experience as the key variables that define who the people are, rather than labeling them as "tribes." Describesthe main traditional cultural forms and institutions found in Africa. Explores thegeography anddemography of the African continent. Takes a critical look athow the Africans have done since they inherited or recovered political power from the European colonial masters -- the problems they have encountered, the forces that have influenced leaders in their choice of strategies in nation-building or economic development, political and economic reforms.