Seychelles: The Saga of a Small Nation Navigating the Cross-Currents of a Big World

by James R. Mancham

Overview

One of the most beautiful places in the world, Seychelles is an island nation off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean that received its independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. Abandoned by England and betrayed by France, its founding president lost power in a communist coup spearheaded by the Prime Minister the following year. Following the collapse of communism and its own bankruptcy, Seychelles has been finding an exemplary path to political stability and economic development under the leadership of current president James A. Michel.

As that founding president, Sir James R. Mancham is in a unique position to tell the story of this transformation, details of the current nation on the move, and thoughts on the way forward to a peaceful and prosperous future. Mancham shares a goldmine of political wisdom learned in his wide-ranging global experiences that have taught him lessons about economic development, governance, geopolitics, friendship, and most importantly about not giving up when it seems the entire world has gone against you. The pristine islands that Mancham describes in this tropical paradise will make the reader want to visit the Seychelles.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940151226769
Publisher:	Paragon House Publishers
Publication date:	03/03/2015
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	480
File size:	14 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

JAMES RICHARD MANCHAM was the first President of the Republic of Seychelles. Trained as a Barrister in London, he returned to serve as a member of the Executive Council of the British colonial administration. Prior to independence, he founded the Seychelles Democratic Party and was then elected President when the British left. He organized the building of the first airport in Seychelles, which increased tourism and economic development. He was overthrown in a socialist coup in 1977 and lived in exile 15 years, becoming successful in selling private islands and managing a German airline, among other things. He returned to Seychelles in 1992 to serve as an adviser for economic development and tourism, and serves as an emissary of Seychelles to numerous international organizations.

Editorial Reviews

An inspirational story of a small country from colonial rule to nationhood and prosperity, as well as a vision for the future.… Mr. Mancham’s latest book clearly involved significant research, covering everyday life in Seychelles as well as history, geography, and strategic location in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Victoria Times - Book Review Editor

...an impressive work. I have no doubt that this book will allow its readers to gain a better understanding of the fascinating history of the Seychelles and how it has come to be the country that it is today.

President, International Criminal Court - Peter Tomka

... a masterpiece written by a remarkable and thoughtful leader of our modern time. It provides a rich account of a leader, who has a thirst to educate and share his knowledge with the rest of the world. The overarching message is that it epitomizes Seychelles as a small nation rising on the horizon with intellectual and leadership prowess. It is a must-read book, which should easily find its way in the library of any intellectual person who aspires to become a future leader in a very dynamic wo

The World Bank Group - Peter Larose

The book is timely.… Seychelles needs good navigators to remain afloat. [Mancham’s] reputation of statesman is widely acknowledged, born out of a desire to place Seychelles first to progress.

Seychelles Minister of Social Affairs - Vincent Meriton

Mancham is ambitious, politically shrewd, and a devoted Seychellois. He has the flamboyance of a Trudeau, the political determination of a Lee Kuan Yew, and the stamina for travel of a Kissinger.

The Times of London - Alan Bailey