Historical Dictionary of Kenya

(Hardback, Third Edition)

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Kenya has a long and complex history that began thousands of years ago. Indeed, some archaeologists contend that the country was the "cradle of mankind" or, at the very least, one of the places that was home to the earliest hominids. In later centuries, Kenya's strategic location astride the Indian Ocean and the East African littoral attracted numerous foreign peoples, some of the most significant of which have been the Americans, Arabs, British, Chinese, French, Germans, and Portuguese. Additionally, Africans from throughout the subcontinent have settled in Kenya to escape conflict or political persecution, while others wanted an opportunity to begin a new life. As a result of being a gateway to the world, the country traditionally has been one of the most important business, cultural, diplomatic, and political centers in Africa. Although it has maintained this reputation during the post-independence period, Kenya, like most African countries, has been plagued by an increasing array of complex economic, political, and social problems.

This third edition of Historical Dictionary of Kenya provides a starting point for those interested in any of the phases of Kenya's historical evolution. This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has 500 cross-referenced entries on important personalities, politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Kenya.

Reviews

Maxon and Ofcansky are both scholars whose research interests center on East Africa. The third edition of this dictionary, last updated in 2000, is an excellent addition to the field. Like most African countries, Kenya eventually gained independence from the British Empire through the struggles and resistance of its people. The country is still home to large numbers of Westerners who flocked to Kenya during colonial days because of its climate and political conditions and perhaps because of its natural attractions. These attractions continue to be the focal point of what Kenya offers to the outside world. Essays in this volume trace Kenya's history from precolonial days to the present. The authors carefully chose the illustrious individuals whose lives are highlighted here for the significant roles they played in shaping the Kenyan narrative. Places of interest are also described, showcasing Kenyas attractions and giving international readers a sense of what to expect. This historical dictionary starts with a time line that serves as a quick reference for dates and events. An introductory essay sheds light on the compilation, and the dictionary section features around 500 cross-referenced entries on such subjects as politics, the economy, foreign relations, religion, culture, and important figures. To help students choose specific research subjects, the bibliography is organized into eight broad headings ranging from general information to history to science to Internet resources. This volume is a good starting point for students and researchers interested in Kenya. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through researchers/faculty. * Choice Reviews *
This valuable addition to the excellent African Historical Dictionaries series replaces the 2000 edition and takes 15 years of additional developments into account. . . .This major work is a welcome addition to African history collections where funds and client demand warrant. * American Reference Books Annual *

Author Bio

Robert M. Maxon has served as education officer and research fellow in history at the University of Nairobi, and visiting professor of history at Moi University. Since 1969, he has been a member of the faculty of West Virginia University He has published widely on various aspects of Kenya's colonial history. In 2009 the Kenya Scholars and Studies Association recognized his many contributions to the study of Kenyan history by a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Thomas P. Ofcansky has held a number of academic and government positions, most recently with the Bureau of Intelligence and Research Africa Division at the U.S. Department of State. He also co-authored the Historical Dictionary of Kenya and the Historical Dictionary of Tanzania.