This book illuminates the answers to various major questions on African development related to international trade and finance. It explores the economic interaction between Africa and the now-developed countries (the West) in the past and China today, as well as the legacy of these interactions for Africa’s growth and poverty reduction effort today. In addition, it discusses the implication of this legacy for Africa’s future development, and considers whether lessons can be drawn from this experience in terms of the continent’s future development? By providing in-depth historical and economic analysis conducted in non-technical terms, the book represents a valuable resource for policy makers, researchers, and students, as well as international organizations that focus on African development.