What Role Did Women Play In The 1950's Mau Rebellion

What role did women play in the 1950’s Mau Mau rebellion in Kenya? “Though forgotten in much of the historical record, Kenyan women were actually the backbone of the Mau Mau movement, as their efforts were essential to the forest fighters: The loss of these female contributions, lead to eventual British victory over the Mau Mau forces”. Women played a major role in the fight for Kenyan freedom from Britain. Women were responsible for keeping the guerilla camps functional. They were also essential in getting information about the enemy’s location and plans. British actions show the impact women had on the war effort.

First, women helped the war on the battlefield. Women preformed the domestic duties at the guerilla camps, while at the same time fighting on the battle field with the men. Women were able to hold leadership positions, which shows the influence they had on the war. This contribution of a woman officer leading men and women into battle emphasizes their influence on the war. The author backs this argument with

One of the most important jobs women preformed made them look weak and dependent, yet they still completed the task focusing on the victory to come. Women took advantage of their persuasive abilities by getting men drunk; they were able to collect vital information on enemy movement from the intoxicated men and their surroundings. From the outside, these women were seen as prostitutes, which would explain why many people thought of woman as weak, dependent, and absent from the war effort. The author emphasizes that this job could only be done by a woman. The argument is backed by solid evidence, and presented to neutralize any counterarguments. The women were capable of possessing the humility this task required. They were disrespected by those who thought they were prostitutes, yet the women were able to take the disrespect for the sake of the gathered