The Making of Mbano: British Colonialism, Resistance, and Diplomatic Engagements in Southeastern Nigeria, 1906-1960

The Making of Mbano: British Colonialism, Resistance, and Diplomatic Engagements in Southeastern Nigeria, 1906-1960, by Ogechi E. Anyanwu, explores how African people in Mbano resisted, scrutinized, and negotiated with the British colonial government, highlighting the intersection of foreign and indigenous notions of community, culture, political economy, religion, and gender in shaping the Mbano colonial identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 10 August 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Through a comprehensive and qualitative analysis of data from archives and research sites in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States, The Making of Mbano: British Colonialism, Resistance, and Diplomatic Engagements in Southeastern Nigeria, 1906-1960 makes a compelling argument that the African people of Mbano consistently and fearlessly invoked their pre-colonial socio-cultural, political, and economic values in resisting, scrutinizing, and ultimately negotiating with the British colonial government. By examining Africa's intricate and diverse interactions with the British through the lens of the Mbano colonial experience, Ogechi E. Anyanwu sheds light on the fascinating intersection of foreign and indigenous notions of community, culture, political economy, religion, and gender in shaping the Mbano colonial identity. Anyanwu skillfully introduces readers to a broader range of individuals who played significant roles in the historical experience of Southeastern Nigeria, although their names may not be found in traditional history books.

The study delves into the complex tapestry of Mbano's history, exploring the ways in which the African people resisted, scrutinized, and ultimately negotiated with the British colonial government. It highlights the unwavering commitment of the Mbano people to their pre-colonial values, which served as a foundation for their resistance. The study also emphasizes the critical role of indigenous knowledge and practices in shaping the Mbano colonial identity.

Through meticulous research and analysis, the study sheds light on the diverse range of individuals who contributed to the historical experience of Mbano. It highlights the contributions of women, who played a significant role in agriculture, trade, and community leadership. It also recognizes the role of traditional leaders, who played a crucial role in mediating between the colonial government and the Mbano people.

Furthermore, the study explores the broader context of British colonialism in Africa, highlighting the similarities and differences between the Mbano colonial experience and other colonial territories. It examines the impact of colonialism on African societies, including the loss of traditional livelihoods, the erosion of cultural practices, and the marginalization of certain groups.

In conclusion, The Making of Mbano: British Colonialism, Resistance, and Diplomatic Engagements in Southeastern Nigeria, 1906-1960 is a groundbreaking study that provides a fresh perspective on the history of Mbano and Africa's complex interactions with the British. It sheds light on the resilience and creativity of the African people in resisting colonialism and highlights the importance of indigenous knowledge and practices in shaping colonial identities. The study also contributes to our understanding of the broader historical context of British colonialism in Africa and its enduring legacies.

Weight: 531g
Dimension: 229 x 162 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793623904