The Struggle for Independence in Kenya
Colonial History · Independence Struggle
Syllabus tag: KCSE | History and Government | Form 3 | Topic 22 Independence Struggle
Lesson objectives
By the end of this topic, you should be able to:
- Explain how the Second World War stimulated nationalism in Kenya.
- Describe the formation and role of KAU and of the trade union movement.
- Describe the Mau Mau uprising, the Emergency and their effects.
- Describe the road to independence through KANU, KADU and the Lancaster conferences.
Summary
Post-war nationalism was stimulated by the Second World War, returning ex-servicemen, and worsening land and labour grievances. KAU was formed in 1944 as the first national body, and trade unions carried politics when parties were banned. The Mau Mau uprising and the Emergency (1952–60) were followed by the Lancaster House conferences and independence in 1963.