The Great Upheaval: Women and Nation in Postwar Nigeria

This social and intellectual history of womens political activism in postwar Nigeria highlights the importance of gender to the study of nationalism and raises questions about Nigeria's colonial past and independent future. The women of Abeokuta staged a successful tax revolt, leading to the formation of the Abeokuta Womens Union and the Nigerian Womens Union in 1949. Judith A. Byfield's book explores the complex tax system that generated the "upheaval" and captures the dynamism of womens political engagement in the postwar period. It challenges readers to problematize the collapse of universal franchise when Nigeria achieved independence in 1960.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2022
Publisher: Ohio University Press

This captivating social and intellectual history delves into the profound impact of gender on the study of nationalism in postwar Nigeria. It unveils the significance of women's political activism in shaping the nation's colonial past and its independent future.

In the aftermath of World War II, the women of Abeokuta, Nigeria, embarked on a remarkable journey of empowerment. Through a successful tax revolt, they established the Abeokuta Women's Union and later paved the way for the formation of the Nigerian Women's Union in 1949. These organizations became the pillars of a new political vision, empowering women across Nigeria to articulate their interests, aspirations, and needs while actively participating in the responsibilities and duties of citizenship.

In her book, "The Great Upheaval," Judith A. Byfield has meticulously crafted a rich and nuanced account of gender and nation-making. This work not only chronicles the stories of women's postwar activism but also provides a detailed exploration of the complex tax system that triggered the "upheaval." Byfield skillfully captures the vibrant essence of women's political engagement during this transformative period, shedding light on the centrality of gender in understanding nationalism. Through her insightful analysis, she offers fresh avenues for inquiry into the late colonial era and its enduring consequences for the future of the Nigerian state.

Furthermore, Byfield challenges readers to critically examine the collapse of one of the female subjects' greatest aspirations—universal franchise—when Nigeria achieved independence in 1960. This thought-provoking examination prompts us to delve deeper into the complex dynamics that shaped the nation's political landscape and to consider the ongoing struggles for gender equality and social justice in Nigeria.

In conclusion, this social and intellectual history of women's political activism in postwar Nigeria offers a profound exploration of gender's role in shaping nationalism. It sheds light on the historical significance of women's activism and challenges us to reevaluate the nation's colonial past and its independent future. Byfield's work provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between gender, politics, and nation-building, and it serves as a catalyst for further discussions and research in this field.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780821423981