Islam has enlivened life in African communities and has also been molded by its African settings. In this first comprehensive history, scholars identify the role that Islam and Muslims have played in the story of African development. Introductory chapters examine gateways from abroad through which Islam has traditionally influenced Africans. Following sections present overviews of Islamic history in various regions, and discuss important themes that have made an impact on Muslim communities in Africa. Levtzion directs the Council for Higher Education in Israel and teaches history at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Pouwels teaches African history at the University of Central Arkansas. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)