In this book Connell (Boston Univ.) recounts the creation of the modern nation-state of Eritrea. Once a part of Ethiopia, Eritrea was subject to almost a century of conquest, occupation, and colonial rule, before reverting to Ethiopian sovereignty after WW II. What followed was a 30-year war for independence, finally won in 1991, making Eritrea, at the time, Africa's youngest country (until the independence of South Sudan in 2011). To understand this fledgling nation's standing today, Connell’s ready reference tracks its historical developments, from ancient times to the present, through a chronology, an introductory essay, a bibliography, and more than 500 cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant persons, events, places, and organizations, many of which contributed to Eritrea's modern statehood, as well as on politics, economy, society, and culture. Despite years of turmoil since independence, Connell suggests that recent improvements in the national economy and in the peace process with Ethiopia may portend positive developments in the future. In this exhaustive text, Connell also includes items of historical importance and Eritrean landmarks to assist readers as they seek to study, understand, and better appreciate this country.
Summing Up: Recommended. All readership levels.
— Choice Reviews