Racism, Racialism and Segregation in the African Context

Abstract

Before examining the situation in East Africa in detail, it is appropriate to look at issues of race in the broader African context. Certain historical developments, some very recent and many more within living memory, have continued to affect modern political consciousness. In this chapter the first phenomenon considered, that of the slave trade, belongs to an earlier historical epoch. But it will be examined in some detail, because no other institution depended quite so much upon a racist outlook — though as has already been noted, ideologies which tried to justify slavery appeared only after it had begun. Secondly the European response to slavery in the form of missionary activity and subsequent colonialism will be considered with particular reference to the implications for race and racism. Thirdly, the situation in South Africa will be examined, as a phenomenon in itself and in terms of how the persistence of apartheid had its impact upon international relations in the African context. Fourthly, the issue of first the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland and subsequently illegal declaration of independence in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), and its impact upon international politics, will be considered. Finally, an analysis of African societies (South Africa and Rhodesia/ Zimbabwe) in which racial segregation was one of the key characteristics will be made from the viewpoint of sociology and anthropology.