Africans and Their History chronicles in fascinating detail African history from prehistoric times through the end of the 20th century. Africa has witnessed the birth of many important developments in history. Human evolution, including the use of fire, food production via plant cultivation and animal domestication, as well as the creation of sophisticated tools and hunting weapons from iron took place in Africa. Other historical events such as the slave trade, which played a critical role in Western economic power, the rise of Islam as one of the world's dominant religions, and colonization and struggles for independence occurred on African soil. Originally publihsed in 1972, this second revised edition provides a concise and authoritative overview of the diverse peoples and societies of Africa and includes events through the end of the 20th century, including the emergence of a free South Africa and its landmark enactment of a constitution that recognizes even more rights than the American constitution.