Schwab discusses how myriad Subsaharan African states have all but ceased to exist as organized entities, with some spiralling into complete disintegration. Several were propelled into tyranny, others collapsed into civil war and ethnic conflict, while cross border invasions threatened international peace and security. Violations of political and economic human rights by predatory indigenous government are discussed, as is the role of the UN and the United States in largely neglecting horrific phenomena. Widespread poverty and the AIDS pandemic are identified as central factors contributing to the bleakness this region faces. The book concludes with a discussion of whether Africa can survive this crisis situation and a consideration of the appropriate Western response.