Book excerpt: Colonial Encounters in The Age of High Imperialism is the first book in the new HarperCollins World History Series, edited by Michael Adas. This title examines the world-transforming experience of Western imperialism during the period from 1870 to 1914. Case studies focusing Specifically on Belgium and the Congo, Hawaii and the United States, and India and Britain examine the experiences of both colonizers and colonized, men and women, elite officials and faceless laborers. An introductory overview makes the study of imperialism relevant for today's students by showing them how the past relates to the present. Chapter-ending conclusions summarize important material, and suggested in-depth readings direct students to sources for further exploration. The case studies provide detailed examination of particular places and moments and invite comparison with imperialism in other parts of the world. Discussions of broader topics and larger issues, such as population redistribution, the spread of technology, military invasion, and the role of guns and medicine build upon the case studies.