Post-Colonial Nations in Historical and Cultural Context

Post-colonial migration flows from the Global South to the Global North are increasing multi-culturalism in the North, while liberated states of Asia and Africa have been multi-cultural from earlier on. Bondarenko argues that this history of multi-culturalism is an advantage to development in the Global South and that it is necessary to depart from the classical, Western concept of the nation to simultaneously support citizen unity while preserving cultural diversity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 354 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

In his book Post-colonial Nations in Historical and Cultural Context, Dmitri M. Bondarenko delves into the intricate process of nation-building in Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Through a comprehensive analysis that incorporates historical and anthropological perspectives, he explores the evolving concepts of nation and state, shedding light on their global transformations, particularly in relation to the notion that a nation's fundamental essence lies in a culturally homogeneous community. This concept, which gained prominence in the West during the late eighteenth century, served as a cornerstone of the nation-state idea. However, the recent waves of post-colonial migration from the Global South to the Global North have brought about a rise in multi-culturalism in the North. In contrast, liberated states in Asia and Africa, having inherited the colonial borders that united diverse peoples, have always been characterized by multi-culturalism.

Throughout the book, Bondarenko makes a compelling argument that this history of multi-culturalism holds significant advantages for development in the Global South. He advocates for a departure from the traditional, Western notion of the nation to simultaneously foster citizen unity and preserve cultural diversity. By examining the unique experiences and challenges faced by these nations in their post-colonial journeys, Bondarenko offers valuable insights into the complexities of nation-building and the importance of embracing a diverse and inclusive perspective.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of nation-building and the role of culture in shaping societies. It provides a rich tapestry of historical and cultural perspectives, offering a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of nation-building processes in the Global South.

Weight: 671g
Dimension: 237 x 158 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666940466