This is the first comprehensive history of the Rhodes Trust, based on documentation in the relevant constituencies as well as on the archives of the Trust. At his death the British imperialist and entrepreneur Cecil Rhodes (1853-1902) left a substantial fortune to be administered by Trustees. In the century since his death the Trust has funded the system of international Rhodes Scholarships set out in his will, enabling Rhodes scholars to come to Oxford University from many countries of the world. More than 6,000 scholars from over thirty countries have benefited from the scheme, which was originally established for the former UK colonies, the United States of America, and Germany. Since its inception the Trustees have also engaged in other political and philanthropic activities on behalf of the Trust. This objective and informed account will appeal not only to Rhodes Scholars worldwide, but also to all with an interest in international education and in South Africa.