Although the Igbo constitute one of the largest ethnic nationalities of Nigeria and the West African sub-region, little is known about their political history before the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. This book is a pioneer study of the broad changes Igbo political systems have undergone since the prehistoric period.

Autorentext
John Oriji is Professor of African History at California Polytechnic State University, USA. His publications include Traditions of Igbo Origin (1994), Ngwa History (1998), numerous articles in professional journals, and chapters in books discussing diverse themes in African history ranging from oral traditions and sacred centers to the slave trade and colonialism.

Inhalt
Introduction Igboland Before and During the Iron Age: From Stateless Societies to Mini States The Igbo and their Neighbors Before the 15th Century The Igbo and the Benin, Igala and Eastern Ijo Mega States during Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade The Aro Trade Network: Changes in Igbo Society from the 18th -19th Centuries Abolition of the Slave Trade and the Genesis of Legitimate Commerce, Christianity and the New Imperialism Developments in Igboland from the 1890s 1970s Conclusion