Clark and Decalo present a comprehensive resource on all things Congolese. While the title is heavy on the political, the country’s history from around 500 CE through the 1960 declaration of independence and civil wars of the past decade, culture, and economic system are additional focus points. More than 700 cross-referenced entries account for the bulk of this one-volume gem, and are accompanied by an introduction, a chronology, and ready-reference appendixes. VERDICT Given that this book also features an extensive bibliography, it forms an outstanding entrée for those interested in the country.

Library Journal

This dictionary, along with any volume in this long-running quality series, is suitable for the reference collections of all academic and large public libraries, and those special collections dealing with Africa.

American Reference Books Annual

In this fourth edition (3rd ed., Historical Dictionary of Congo, by Decalo, V. Thompson, and R. Adloff, CH, Mar'97, 34-3627), Clark (Florida International Univ.) and Decalo (Univ. of Florida) continue with the 1997 return to power of President Sassou-Nguesso, detail the outbreak of several civil wars, and address the impact of improving economic conditions due to petroleum exports. Like other titles in the "Historical Dictionaries of Africa" series, this work has four main sections--an introduction, a chronology, a dictionary, and a bibliography. The introduction provides a concise overview of Congolese history with an emphasis on postcolonial politics and the economy. Similarly, the chronology, which begins c. 500, is much more detailed after Congo emerges as an independent country. The dictionary features more than 700 cross-referenced entries that cover prominent individuals, ethnic groups, companies and organizations, relations with other countries, and general topics such as agriculture, education, industry, religion, transportation, and women. Again, the focus is on the last five decades. Of particular value is the extensive bibliography, which is arranged in sections that cover history, politics, economics, society, and culture. The many references to French sources will be extremely helpful to researchers. Summing Up: Recommended.

Choice Reviews

In its fourth edition, J .F. Clark's Historical Dictionary of Republic of the Congo adds considerably to the previous work of Virginia Thomson, Richard Adloff and Samuel Decalo and makes an important contribution to a small body of English language scholarship on a country that, in the words of the series’ editor, Jon Woronoff, had more than enough “history” for one of Africa's smallest countries. . .Structurally, the dictionary faithfully retains the organization of its predecessors. . .[There] are hundreds of alphabetically ordered, clearly written dictionary entries. . . .Clark's detailed research and updates result in an excellent reference book that will appeal to casual readers, students as well as researchers wishing to explore an aspect of Congolese history or locate additional literature in English and the French language. As such, it is a highly recommended addition to both public and academic library reference collections.

Reference Reviews