The Masai: Resistance and Reaction to the Establishment of British Administration, 1886-1912

Abstract

In this thesis I have attempted to trace a small portion of Masai history during the critical period 1886 to 1912. To be a complete analysis of Masai resistance and reaction to British administration, I would have needed not only a longer period of time, but also facility in the Masai language to undertake interviews with elderly Masai who participated in the second move. The Masai are a complex and fascinating people who cannot be studied, much less analyzed, without contact with them. They are potentially the most important tribe for the future development of Kenya and Tanzania. The scope of this project did not allow for any study of the Tanzania Masai unfortunately.