Reconsidering Colonial Heritage in West African Cities: Urban Space in Cape Verde, Senegal and The Gambia

The material legacy of the colonial era is embedded in African cities, with varying responses to colonial heritage. This book explores the case studies of Praia, Dakar, and Banjul, highlighting the complex relationship between politics, urban space, and heritage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The colonial era's material legacy is deeply ingrained in the cities of Africa, manifesting itself in various aspects such as urban layouts, architecture, monuments, and street names. This captivating book delves into the diverse responses to colonial heritage across West African cities, with a special emphasis on the case studies of Praia in Cape Verde, Dakar in Senegal, and Banjul in The Gambia. During the colonial era, Europeans often viewed cities as administrative hubs, serving as the initial points of settlement and the sites where power was formally transferred to new African governments. The legacy of colonialism in Praia, Dakar, and Banjul unfolded at different times, under the influence of different colonial powers (Portuguese, French, and British) and amidst varying degrees of unrest.

Through extensive original research, this book sheds light on the contemporary approach to the contentious issue of urban colonial heritage. It reveals that the dynamics of metropolis-colony relationships, postcolonial diplomatic relations, and current political decisions play a significant role in shaping how these heritage sites are addressed and managed. The book unveils a fascinating interplay between politics and urban space, as well as the interplay between new and old. By drawing insights from political sciences, history, critical geography, heritage studies, and urban planning, this book offers valuable insights to a broad spectrum of researchers.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032531762