This article seeks to explain Africa's current quot;period of unparalleled economic success,quot; following decades of economic stagnation. Using newly available data, we investigate whether international commodity price increases (our quot;metalsquot; hypothesis) or policy reforms (our...

Studies of African economic development frequently focus on the daunting challenges the continent faces. From recurrent crises to ethnic conflicts and long-standing corruption, a raft of deep-rooted problems has led many to regard the continent as facing many hurdles to raise living standards....