Based on long-term research in an area long closed to researchers, this book provides an internal account of trans-border connectivity, armed conflict, labour and gender relations, and aspirations to political autonomy in northern Chad. It sheds light on current Saharan political developments, and adds a new perspective to Saharan studies.
Exploring the Sahara's complex reality, the book challenges simplistic perceptions of the world's largest hot desert. Through extensive research and personal experiences, anthropologist Judith Scheele examines its vast geography, diverse cultures, and historical contexts, spanning from the Roman Empire to modern geopolitical issues. The narrative delves into the region's geology, life forms, and the intricate interplay of religions and political dynamics, offering a profound understanding of a pivotal area that influences global affairs.