We, the Decolonized

By: Hélé Beji, Matthew B. Smith (Translator), Nouri Gana (Foreword by)

Write A Review

Hardcover | 24 October 2024

At a Glance

Hardcover
176 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
22.15 x 18.57 x 1.79

Hardcover

$149.75

or 4 interest-free payments of $37.44 with

or

Ships in 5 to 10 business days

We, the Decolonized is a passionate reflection on the pitfalls of the decolonial venture in postcolonial countries, with particular reference to North Africa. Hele Beji shows that in many formerly colonized countries, the reality of independence took the form of elusive freedom, widespread disillusionment and the insidious survival of forms of domination bequeathed by former colonial powers.

Beji delivers an trenchant critique of decolonization: the saddest of all liberties, because it has not kept its promises. Those who had vanquished colonialism, vindicated civilization and struggled free from the yoke of illegitimate government found themselves ensnared in a new trap, having achieved emancipation without liberation. They remained entangled in a compulsive recycling of colonial impulses. To re-embark on the route to a truly free society, intellectuals and political figures must lead by example in acknowledging the reality of the past, adopting tolerant attitudes towards religions and embracing a new and secular democratic mentality.

Beji’s important contribution to the decolonial canon will be of great interest to anyone concerned with the politics of decolonization in Africa and the Maghreb and in the Global South more broadly.

Industry Reviews

"An intelligent, original critique which exposes a new 'history of dependence' and the inability to change forms of consciousness following the independence won by many states in Africa when the quest for freedom that had nourished anticolonial struggles has been abandoned."
Jean Khalfa, University of Cambridge

"driven by a powerful, authentic voice"
The Journal of North African Studies

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $79.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.