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An Indigenous Capitalism?

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The Emergence of African Capitalism

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Abstract

Roger Anstey’s major work was on the abolition of the Atlantic slave trade.1 He chose to study one of the most contentious issues in modern history, an issue still capable of arousing powerful emotions. Through the contention and the controversy he took a narrow, winding, subtle path, seeking to weigh and connect the elements of abstract principle, national interest, personal advantage, and political skill which together brought about the abolition of the slave trade. Anstey’s path was specifically a historian’s path. His contribution was specifically a historian’s contribution. As a member of the College of Wilberforce and Clarkson, and as a man so close in spirit to them, it was fitting that he should have been their historian. I am a member of the same College and I am honoured to have been invited to give these first lectures in his memory.

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Notes

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© 1983 John Iliffe

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Iliffe, J. (1983). An Indigenous Capitalism?. In: The Emergence of African Capitalism. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-17229-0_1

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