Moving away from reductive geographical or linguistic surveys of the Francophone world, this collection of original essays provides a thematic discussion of the complex historical, political and cultural links between France and its former colonies. Providing a theoretical framework for poscolonial criticism of the field, it also aims to trigger a genuine dialogue between Francophone and Anglophone scholars of postcolonialism. Part one provides a historical overview, from the 18th to the 20th century, addressing issues of colonialism, slavery and exoticism. Part two looks at language issues and discusses France’s belief in the universality of its language and culture and the postcolonial challenges to that view. Part three discusses issues of diversity and multiculturalism in contemporary Francophone cultures. Part four concludes with an analysis of the French language contribution to postcolonialism as well as an examination of Francophone postcolonial thought and culture in the principal areas of the French-speaking world.