How Colonialism Preempted Modernity in Africa

Why hasn't Africa been able to respond to the challenges of modernity and
globalization? Going against the conventional wisdom that colonialism brought
modernity to Africa, Olúfémi Táíwò claims that Africa was already becoming modern
and that colonialism was an unfinished project. Africans aspired to liberal
democracy and the rule of law, but colonial officials aborted those efforts when
they established indirect rule in the service of the European powers. Táíwò looks
closely at modern institutions, such as church missionary societies, to recognize
African agency and the impulse toward progress. He insists that Africa can get back
on track and advocates a renewed engagement with modernity. Immigration, capitalism,
democracy, and globalization, if done right this time, can be tools that shape a
positive future for Africa.