These essays represent the evolution of Coleman's thought, from deep insight into African nationalism, to a refined theory of modernization. His work fused liberal-democratic idealism and scientific realism.

James Smoot Coleman was the leading theorist of his time in African political studies. His work fused liberal-democratic idealism and scientific realism. These essays represent the evolution of his thought from deep insight into African nationalism to a refined theory of modernization. The collection is an indispensable contribution to the intellectual history of comparative African politics, essential to scholars and others who grapple with problems in African development.