Originally published in 1949

This book discusses Umbundu social structure and education, with particular reference to how both of these adapted as Angola's contact with Western influences increased in the first half of the twentieth century.

Using materials gathered in the field, this volume charts the rapid pace of change which caused social disintegration among the Ovimumbundu, a significant Bantu-speaking group in the Benguela Highland of Angola.

Differing approaches to education including assimilation and adaptation are examined and their merits discussed.