Africa, Empire and Fleet Street: Albert Cartwright and West Africa Magazine

A dual biography: of a pioneering British anti-colonialist and of the newspaper he edited with distinction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2018
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

For decades preceding and following African independence, the London-based weekly West Africa held a prominent position as a trusted source of news, analysis, and commentary on the region, particularly the (former) British territories. In this insightful study, Jonathan Derrick, who had the privilege of working on the magazine's staff during the 1960s and again in its final years before closure in 2003, delves into the earlier history of West Africa through the captivating story of its largely forgotten editor, Albert Cartwright. Spanning from the magazine's founding in 1917 to Cartwright's retirement in 1947, Derrick's work offers a profound exploration of the man who played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of colonial-era West Africa.

Prior to his tenure at West Africa, Cartwright spent twenty years in South Africa, making headlines in 1901 when he assumed the role of editor of Cape Town's South African News during the Boer War. His tenure in the editorial chair was marked by a significant incident in 1901 when he was unjustly jailed for a year on a war crimes allegation leveled against Lord Kitchener. Through meticulous research into Cartwright's family papers and personal recollections, Derrick unveils the intricate nature of a man who, for three decades, led a colonial magazine but was revered by Africans for his genuine understanding of their culture and experiences.

Derrick contextualizes the story of colonial-era West Africa within the broader landscape of British periodicals that grappled with African affairs in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. By examining the publication's role in shaping public perception and influencing political discourse, Derrick sheds light on the complex interplay between colonialism, journalism, and the African experience. West Africa, under Cartwright's stewardship, emerged as a significant voice in the African press, offering a platform for diverse perspectives and challenging the dominant narratives of the time.

Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Derrick restores the memory of Albert Cartwright and his contributions to the history of West Africa. His work serves as a valuable reminder of the complexities and nuances of the colonial era, highlighting the roles played by individuals and institutions in shaping the course of history. West Africa, in its legacy, continues to inspire and inform discussions on colonialism, identity, and the ongoing struggle for social justice in Africa and beyond.

Weight: 600g
Dimension: 150 x 223 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849048323