Second Hand Empire Builder Extraordinary

This carefully researched biography offers an authoritative and engaging exploration of Sir George Goldie (1846-1925), the British colonial figure whose influence helped shape Nigeria as a British protectorate and whose concept of empire blended commercial enterprise, chartered company rule and imperial administration. D. J. M. Muffett delves into Goldie’s philosophy of government and empire, his role in establishing the Royal Niger Company, his vision for British Africa and his political and economic strategies.

Key features include:

• A detailed narrative of Goldie’s career, from his early life and education to his exploration of West Africa, involvement in the Niger region and his administration of the Royal Niger Company.
• Insight into Goldie’s imperial philosophy: how he viewed the role of chartered companies, private enterprise and adaptation of British governance models to African contexts.
• Critical assessment of his contribution to colonial Nigeria, his interventions in trade, diplomacy with French and German colonial powers, and his role in the Niger Territories’ final incorporation into the British Empire.
• Exploration of how Goldie’s ideas foreshadowed later developments: debates on chartered company rule, indirect rule, African administration and the interplay of commerce and colonial governance.
• Presented in a richly illustrated format, the work includes photographs, company records, maps and supporting documentation to situate Goldie’s work and legacy.

A rare and valuable work, particularly recommended for scholars of British imperial history, West African studies, colonial administration, corporate imperialism, and collectors of biographies of key colonial actors.