It gives me great pleasure to introduce the first in the series of Occasional Publications by the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL). This publication comprises .a set of three lectures: two Annual lectures delivered by distinguished, scholars in the fields of Literature/Drama and History respectively and the first Convocation lecture by an eminent and world-renowned scholar, also in the field of History. The Academy aims to address issues of national relevance with a view to making an impact on national life and policies, and sensitizing policy-makers towards well- reasoned solutions. The lecture series are a major instrument for achieving this objective and their scope will embrace perspectives in the diverse disciplines in the Arts.The other academic thrust of NAL is the Annual Symposium, the proceedings of which will appear in the Annals of the Nigerian Academy of Letters. It is hoped that by making these lectures and symposia available in form of publications, the ideas expressed will generate interest and further debate, particularly among the intellectual community.On behalf of NAL, I wish to express our gratitude to the lecturers (who are all foundation fellows of NAL): Professor Emeritus J. F. Ade Ajayi, Prof. J. P. Clark Bekederemo, and Professor Adiele Afigbo; the Editor of the book, Professor Emeritus Ayo Banjo, and all the donors to NAL, without whose generous support this publication would not have been possible. Moving from the theme of development to African attitudes to the slave trade and finally to the role of history and myth in national integration, Humanity in Context provides a rich tapestry of issues related to the role of the African in historical perspective and development. It is a stimulating and rewarding read and I warmly recommend it.Ayo Bamgbose, NNOM, FNALFoundation PresidentNigerian Academy of Letters, August 2000