Osprey Warrior 108 : Mau-Mau Warrior

The Mau-Mau uprising (1952-60) remains a controversial conflict, waged by warriors about whom many myths have been formed, but little truth has been written. Condemned by history as a brutal rag-tag force engaged in oath-taking, cannibalism and witchcraft, the military activities of the Mau-Mau have long been overlooked. Although their skill, organization and unique motivation forced the British government to undertake the longest airlift in military history, and to deploy extensive force at a cost of almost £60 million, before it could claim victory. This book reveals the real men and women behind the Mau-Mau, the truth behind the oaths that bound them together, and how they became a powerful force, paving the way for Kenya's independence. Text by Abiodun Alao with illustrations by Christa Hook.

Contents

• Background of Agitation and Protest
• Chronology
• Political Philosophy of the Mau-Mau Warrior
• Motivation
• Pattern of Recruitment
• Weapons
• Training Pattern
• Military Tactics
• Typical Engagement
• The Demise and Legacy of the Warrior
• Glossary
• Bibliography
• Index