In this landmark new history, Toyin Falola analyses the impact of Britain's colonization of Nigeria from the late nineteenth century to 1960, when the country regained independence. Falola covers major events in depth, from the initial conquest and denial of Indigenous sovereignty, to the emergence and functioning of the colonial state, and later nationalist movements, offering fascinating insights into labour and trade relations, regionalism and nationalism, and Nigeria's role during the First and Second World Wars. Understanding Colonial Nigeria assesses the economic, political, social, and cultural changes that culminated in the emergence of a coalition of diverse groups agitating for the end of colonial rule from the 1940s - from labor coalitions and politicians to youth groups and market women. From the country's borders and state structure, to the present conflicts, Falola powerfully reflects on the lasting consequences of British intervention in the affairs of Nigerian states and communities.

"Toyin Falola explains the conquest, administration, and the transformational changes in the latter half of the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century in Nigeria. Its depth of analysis makes it a resourceful book for undergraduate and postgraduate students and scholars"--