Following the Second World War, colonial power seemed to crumble. From 1945 to the end of the twentieth century, more than 80 colonies overcame European rule and declared independence. After decades or even centuries of resistance to brutal oppression, their victories appeared to mark a decisive break with the past. But appearances can be deceiving. How did the colonial matrix of power — the ideas, events, inequalities and injustices borne of colonialism — continue to shape the modern world, from the fifteenth century to today? The question is central to the exhibition Postcolonial?, presented by the House of European History from 17 April 2026 to 14 March 2027. This book combines contributions from the people behind the exhibition, with essays by scholars renowned for their insightful analyses of European colonialism. It also contains excerpts from the eight personal stories featured in the exhibition, which explore the ways colonialism has shaped, and continues to shape, people's lives.

-- Introductory texts -- The exhibition -- Essays -- Authors' biographies -- Colophon

Published online: 01 May 2026