Herbst’s influential book examines the creation and consolidation of states in Africa over several centuries, focusing on the persistent problem of broadcasting power over vast, sparsely populated territories. Unlike Europe, where high population density and frequent warfare forced rulers to develop robust institutions and infrastructure, African leaders historically faced little external threat and governed lands with low population densities. As a result, the incentives for building strong, centralized states were weak, and the projection of authority across territory remained limited.

Herbst contends that the process of state formation in Africa was radically different from that in Europe, and that many international relations theories fail to account for this divergence. He argues that colonialism, while significant, did not fundamentally alter the challenges African leaders faced; instead, the basic problems of geography, demography, and the lack of existential threats persisted before, during, and after colonial rule. The book analyzes how these structural factors led to fragile states, weak political institutions, and recurring instability, as well as the persistence of civil wars and dysfunctional governance in many African countries.

Herbst also explores the consequences of international recognition and foreign aid, which have often allowed weak states to survive without developing the internal capacity to govern effectively. He suggests that understanding Africa’s state-building experience is essential for comparative politics and for crafting policies that address the continent’s ongoing challenges. The revised edition includes reflections on recent changes in Africa and updates on policy prescriptions for state consolidation.