Academic controversies that have swirled for decades around some aspects of pre-colonial royal succession in what is now the North West Province of Cameroon. Seeking resolution, Fanso (history, Yaounde I U., Cameroon) and his late colleague Chem-Langhëë examined the field notes of researchers in the 1950s, and also conducted their own fieldwork. Here they discuss the position of the Fon, the supreme ruler or king, of Nso' in the society; his death and burial; the selection and installation of the new Fon; and the functions, selection, and installation of those people who must be installed with the new Fon to complete the succession process. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)