Crises of Empire: Decolonization and Europe's Imperial States

by Martin Thomas, Bob Moore, L. J. Butler

Crises of Empire offers a comprehensive and uniquely comparative analysis of the history of decolonization in the British, French and Dutch empires. By comparing the processes of decolonization across three of the major modern empires, from the aftermath of the First World War to the late 20th century, the authors are able to analyse decolonization as a long-term process. They explore significant changes to the international system, shifting popular attitudes to colonialism and the economics of empire.

This new edition incorporates the latest developments in the historiography, as well as:
- Increased coverage of the Belgian and Portuguese empires
- New introductions to each of the three main parts, offering some background and context to British, French and Dutch decolonization
- More coverage of cultural aspects of decolonization, exploring empire 'from below'

This new edition of Crises of Empire is essential reading for all students of imperial history and decolonization. In particular, it will be welcomed by those who are interested in taking a comparative approach, putting the history of decolonization into a pan-European framework.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

480 pages, Paperback

First published March 28, 2008

About the author

Dr. Martin Thomas is a British historian and academic. He studied Modern History at Oxford University, graduating in 1985. He returned to Oxford for his graduate studies, earning his doctoral degree (D.Phil.) in 1991.

Professor Thomas began his academic career in 1992 at the University of the West of England (Bristol). In 2003 he accepted a post in the history department of the University of Exeter. He is also the director of the Centre for the Study of War, State and Society.

Professor Thomas is considered one of the leading academic specialists on French colonial history, colonial intelligence & security services, and the history of decolonisation.

Reviews

[Michael C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great overview on the imperial decolonization history of the British and French empires during the 20th century. I preferably enjoyed the sections written by the author of the history of the French imperial decolonization.