This volume examines the tumultuous changes that have occurred and are still occurring in the aftermath of European colonization of the globe from 1492 to 1947. Ranges widely over the major themes, regions, theories and practices of postcolonial studyPresents original essays by the leading proponents of postcolonial study in the Americas, Europe, India, Africa, East and West AsiaProvides clear introductions to the major social and political movements underlying colonization and decolonization, accessible histories of the literature and culture, and separate regions affected by European colonizationFeatures introductory essays on the major thinkers and intellectual schools that have informed strategies of national liberation worldwideOffers an incisive summary of