In this fully revised and expanded 2005 edition of his seminal archaeological survey, David Phillipson presents a lucid, fully illustrated account of African prehistory, from the origins of humanity to the time of European colonisation, and demonstrates the relevance of archaeological research to an understanding of Africa today.

David Phillipson presents an illustrated account of African prehistory, from the origins of humanity through European colonization in this revised and expanded edition of his original work. Phillipson considers Egypt and North Africa in their African context, comprehensively reviewing the archaeology of West, East, Central and Southern Africa. His book demonstrates the relevance of archaeological research to understanding contemporary Africa and stresses the continent's contribution to the cultural heritage of humankind.