The Third Conference on African History and Archaeology, sponsored by the School of Oriental and African Studies of London University on July 3-7, 1961, followed in the series of four-yearly meetings begun in 1953 and continued in 1957. It was already abundantly clear in 1957 that African history had come into its own as a recognized field of study. The Journal of African History, now in its second year and preparing to expand from two to three annual issues, was an outcome of the second conference. It marked the coming-of-age.

Social science research scholars specializing on Africa know the outstanding studies done on the problems, peoples, areas, and governments in Africa, even when outside their own discipline. However, few except economists are familiar with the statistical material published by governments in Africa. Yet this material extensive and can provide information and insights which will repay mining.

This is an introduction to such material for the areas in Africa south of the Sahara which have been, or are, under British control. It is intended for non-ecnomists, or for economists approaching Africa for the first time.