The first volume in a series of textbooks by African studies teachers introduces students to the various pre-colonial histories of Africa. After reviewing the geography and historiography of the continent as a whole, they discuss the earliest inhabitants and civilizations from archaeological evidence to ancient Egypt. Then they consider peoples and states such as the Bantu, the Sudanese kingdoms of West Africa, states in East and Central Africa, Ethiopia, and North Africa; the West African jihad and other features of the 19th century; and interactions with Europe including the slave trade and colonial exploitation. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)