This seminal work—now available in a 15th anniversary edition with a new preface—is a thorough introduction to the historical and theoretical origins of postcolonial theory. Written by one of the leading scholars on the topic, it provides a clearly written and wide-ranging account of postcolonialism, empire, imperialism, and colonialism. The book details the history of anti-colonial movements and their leaders around the world, from Europe and Latin America to Africa and Asia, analyzing the ways in which freedom struggles contributed to postcolonial discourse by producing fundamental ideas about the relationship between non-western and western societies and cultures. With an engaging yet accessible style that will appeal to scholars as well as introductory students, this book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the complex legacy of colonialism and its enduring impacts.