An authoritative history of modern European empires which covers: eras of colonisation and decolonisation; transnational themes in colonialism; and ‘snapshots’ of particular colonies at key moments.

The Colonial World: A History of European Empires, 1780s to the Present provides the most authoritative, in-depth overview on European imperialism available. It synthesizes recent developments in the study of European empires and provides new perspectives on European colonialism and the challenges to it. With a post-1800 focus and extensive background coverage tracing the subject to the early 1700s, the book charts the rise and eclipse of European empires. Robert Aldrich and Andreas Stucki integrate innovative approaches and findings from the 'new imperial history' and look at both the colonial era and the legacies it left behind for countries around the world after they gained independence. Dividing the text into three complementary sections, Aldrich and Stucki offer an original approach to the subject that allows you to explore: - Different eras of colonisation and decolonisation from early modern European colonialism to the present day - Overarching themes in colonial history, like 'land and sea', 'the body' and 'representations of colonialism' - A global range of snapshot colonial case studies, such as Peru (1780), India (1876), The South Pacific (1903), the Dutch East Indies (1938) and the Portuguese empire in Africa (1971) This is the essential text for anyone seeking to understand the nature and complexities of modern European imperialism and its aftermath.

"A masterly account full of fresh insights and engaging arguments. Their innovative structure enables Aldrich and Stucki to wield the historical lens with enviable flair. The vast topic of European empire is telescoped into comprehensible trends and themes, while still allowing for the precise focus on distinct times and places that brings the past alive. This is a history of the colonial world for the here and now." - Kirsten McKenzie, Professor of History, University of Sydney, Australia

"Attentive to current debates as well as historical context, this wide-ranging survey of European imperialism makes clear why colonial pasts continue to matter today. Accessibly written, beautifully illustrated and remarkably comprehensive, The Colonial World will surely serve for a long time as the authoritative guide to a major historical phenomenon." - Philippa Levine, William Prescott Webb Chair in History and Ideas, University of Texas at Austin, USA