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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Language, Culture, Ethnicity and National Integration: The Togo Experience since 1900
Author:Lasisi, Rashid Oladoja
Year:1992
Periodical:African Study Monographs
Volume:14
Issue:1
Pages:1-12
Language:English
Geographic term:Togo
Subjects:Ewe
ethnicity
nation building
Ethnic and Race Relations
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
Politics and Government
nationalism
History and Exploration
External link:http://hdl.handle.net/2433/68103
Abstract:This paper shows how linguistic, cultural and ethnic factors have impeded the process of national integration in the Republic of Togo. Togo is a multilingual and multicultural nation-State. German, French and English colonial policies between 1900 and 1960 accentuated already existing ethnic differences. Ethnic consciousness was reinforced, and complaints and protests, particularly against the arbitrary partition of formerly homogeneous groups, were first expressed by the Evhe, a Kwa linguistic group. Since independence in 1960, the socioeconomic and political inequalities among and between the different language and culture groups which were created by French rule have remained, because the successive indigenous Togolese governments have continued colonial policies. Now more ethnic groups (particularly the Gur-speaking people) have become conscious of their socioeconomic and political deprivation and ethnic strife has become more pervasive. This has resulted in the formation of ethnically based political associations, which has led to political instability. At present, the Kwa dominate the modern sector of the economy, while the Gur monopolize political and military power. Under this dichotomy, national integration remains a chimera in Togo. Bibliogr., sum.
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