First Published in 1987. This volume is the product of a number of meetings held by the Third World History and Development Study Group, which is one of several study groups sponsored by the Development Studies Association. The Group was formed in 1978 at the Development Studies Association Conference held at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow. It comprises people who for one reason or another wish to raise the status of historical work within development studies, seeking to redefine the scope and enlarge upon its role. The present collection of essays represents research which has been done both on procedures and methodology in development studies, and on colonialism as a historical process relevant to the study of underdevelopment.