This collection examines the Sahara holistically from the earliest (prehistoric) times through the ‘historical’ period to the present and with political direction into the future. The contributions cover palaeoclimatology, history, archaeology (cultural heritage), social anthropology, sociology, politics and international affairs. Structured chronologically, the volume can almost be read as a narrative of the Sahara from the earliest times to the present, i.e. from the past climates of the Sahara in prehistoric times to the current ‘war on terror’ and its implications for the peoples of the Sahara. Importantly, the collection shows how the region must be approached ‘holistically’, highlighting the importance of each of these subject areas (palaeo-climates, history, politics, etc.) in relation to each other. Indeed, the first contribution is a remarkable (and unique) paper, bringing together the work of some 8-9 internationally recognised scientists to tell the story and show the relevance to the present day of the Sahara’s past climates etc. Nearly all the contributions stand in their own right at the cutting edge of research in their respective fields (e.g. archaeology, history, politics, etc.). This book was previously published as a special issue of the Journal of North African Studies.

Describes the hostile environment of the Sahara Desert in West Africa, and explains how it is home to 2.5 million people.

The little-known history of how the Sahara was transformed from a green and fertile land into the largest hot desert in the world The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world, equal in size to China or the United States. Yet, this arid expanse was once a verdant, pleasant land, fed by rivers and lakes. The Sahara sustained abundant plant and animal life, such as Nile perch, turtles, crocodiles, and hippos, and attracted prehistoric hunters and herders. What transformed this land of lakes into a sea of sands? When the Sahara Was Green describes the remarkable history of Earth’s greatest desert—including why its climate changed, the impact this had on human populations, and how scientists uncovered the evidence for these extraordinary events. From the Sahara’s origins as savanna woodland and grassland to its current arid incarnation, Martin Williams takes us on a vivid journey through time. He describes how the desert’s ancient rocks were first fashioned, how dinosaurs roamed freely across the land, and how it was later covered in tall trees. Along the way, Williams addresses many questions: Why was the Sahara previously much wetter, and will it be so again? Did humans contribute to its desertification? What was the impact of extreme climatic episodes—such as prolonged droughts—upon the Sahara’s geology, ecology, and inhabitants? Williams also shows how plants, animals, and humans have adapted to the Sahara and what lessons we might learn for living in harmony with the harshest, driest conditions in an ever-changing global environment. A valuable look at how an iconic region has changed over millions of years, When the Sahara Was Green reveals the desert’s surprising past to reflect on its present, as well as its possible future.

Unleash the secrets of a transformed Sahara Desert! This captivating book explores the bold vision of a greener Sahara, a once barren landscape reborn as a flourishing oasis. Dive deep into the challenges and solutions that lie ahead as humanity embarks on this ambitious environmental project. A Greener Vision: Explore the captivating dream of a verdant Sahara, teeming with life and boasting fertile agricultural fields. From Dream to Reality: Uncover the roadmap to success, from feasibility studies and pilot projects to building international partnerships and securing funding. Technological Advancements: Discover how cutting-edge technologies like desalination, smart irrigation, and renewable energy will play a crucial role in reviving the Sahara. Sustainable Practices: Learn about innovative and sustainable farming techniques that will cultivate a thriving ecosystem while ensuring long-term water security. A Beacon of Hope: Witness how the Sahara greening project can inspire a global movement for environmental change and a more sustainable future for all. This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by environmental restoration, desert ecosystems, and the potential of human ingenuity. Join the journey as we explore the possibilities of a greener Sahara, a testament to our collective ability to heal the planet.

This book describes life on the contemporary border between Algeria and Mali, exploring current developments in a broad historical and socioeconomic context.

A definitive one-volume guide to all sub-Saharan African countries, providing invaluable economic and directory data.