The Historian and Society: Selected Historical Writings of Yusufu Bala Usman compiles some of the most influential and thought-provoking writings of Yusufu Bala Usman, one of Nigeria’s preeminent historians and scholars. This collection provides a comprehensive look at Usman’s scholarly contributions, highlighting his unique perspectives on Nigerian history and his critical approach to historical analysis.

Usman’s work is renowned for its rigorous examination of historical events and its focus on the socio-economic and political dimensions of history. This volume showcases his commitment to uncovering the complexities of Nigeria’s past and offers insights into the broader implications of historical developments on contemporary society.

Key themes covered in the book include:

Historical Methodology: Usman’s approach to historiography and his innovative methods for analyzing historical sources and contexts.
Colonial and Post-Colonial History: Analysis of Nigeria’s colonial legacy and its impact on the post-colonial state, including socio-economic and political changes.
Political Economy: Examination of the economic and political structures of Nigerian societies and how they have evolved over time.
Social Structures: Exploration of traditional and contemporary social structures and their role in shaping historical narratives.
Critical Perspectives: Usman’s critiques of mainstream historical interpretations and his contributions to alternative historical perspectives.
The Historian and Society serves as an essential resource for historians, scholars, and students interested in Nigerian history and historiography. It reflects Yusufu Bala Usman’s profound influence on the field of history and his enduring legacy as a critical thinker and historian.