I have been assisted by many. My heartfelt thanks go to a not-to-be-named Marxist historian who pointed out valuable sources, and gave extensive comments and advice on the initial draft. Many thanks are also due to Wendell H Marsh, Issa Shivji, Abdul Sheriff and Natasha Shivji for comments and helpful suggestions.

Three anonymous scholars selected by the Walter Rodney Foundation reviewed an earlier incarnation of this work. Patricia Rodney and Asha Rodney sent me relevant material and gave comments. A reviewer from the Daraja Press also pointed to some improvements. They all have my gratitude.

I am particularly thankful that Rosa Hirji found time from her hectic schedule to give instructive comments, meticulously edit the manuscript and assist in the selection of the title and cover design. Firoze Manji and his team at Daraja Press have earned my commendations for their efforts to expeditiously bring out this book.

Without the untiring efforts of my life partner Farida, this book would not have seen the light of the day. She has cared for me in countless way in these days of fragile health, and assisted by typing my dictation and making corrections. No words can express the gratitude I feel.

Note: A large portion of Chapter 9 is taken from a talk given at the Fifth Annual Walter Rodney Symposium held in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2013.