Kenya and the Mau Mau Revolt

Paper Summary:

This paper refers to the contrasting accounts of the Mau Mau Revolt of 1952-1960 that hastened the independence of Kenya at the terrible price of a civil war and brutal British counterinsurgency campaign. It then discusses economic origins and Marxist historians' views, and examines the dimensions of Kenya's numbers who accepted or supported British rule, demanded a gradual devolution of power and maintained respect for institutions.

From the Paper:

"The Mau Mau Uprising of 1952-1960, sharpened conflict between Kenya's European settlers and the Home Office in Britain that would bring Kenya's independence in 1963. The rebellion is a reminder of how colonial movements of the kind were often always well developed, ideologically, even as their heroes stay in popular memory as people involved in a noble campaign for freedom. The Mau Mau featured various contrasts in a unique movement that grew from an unique Kenyan environment. "

More papers on Kenya and the Mau Mau Revolt :

• Analytical Essay # 128536 : "The Mau Mau Uprising"
• Research Paper # 2659 : "Politics in Kenya in the 20th Century"

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