This book explores the clash of civilizations between the secular government and Muslim traditions in West Africa, appraising the challenge of separating the administration of the state from the beliefs of the Islamic peoples of the region. It is useful for students of comparative religion.

Lamin Sanneh is D. Willis James Professor of Missions and World Christianity at Yale University's Divinity School and professor of history at Yale University. He is descended from the nyanchos, an ancient African royal house, and was educated on four continents, ultimately receiving his doctorate in Islamic history from the University of London. In recognition of his academic work, he was made Commandeur de l'Ordre National du Lion, Senegal's highest national honour.

The Crown and the Turban -- Bernard Lewis -- Orthographical and Bibliographical Note -- About the Book and Author -- Introduction -- Islam and the African Context -- Muslims in Non-Muslim Societies of Africa -- Islam and the African Religious Synthesis -- Slavery, Clerics, and Muslim Society -- Islam, Africa, and Colonialism -- Tcherno Aliou, the Wall of Goumba -- Saints, Virtue, and Society in Muslim Africa -- Education and Society -- A Childhood Muslim Education -- The Arabic Language in African Education -- Action and Reaction Among Freetown Muslims -- Muslims and the Secular National State in Africa -- Religion and Politics with Reference to Africa -- "The Crown and the Turban"