The great war and Chewa society in Malawi

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The great war and Chewa society in Malawi
Author:	Page, Melvin E.
Year:	1979
Periodical:	Journal of Southern African Studies
Volume:	6
Issue:	2
Pages:	171-182
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Malawi
Subjects:	Chewa World War I
External link:	https://www.jstor.org/stable/2636439
Abstract:	Notwithstanding challenges to Chewa political and economic power from various African forces, and since the 1880s the growing involvement of European missionaries and government officials in their affairs, the Chewa have not only survived, but have also spread their influence throughout present day Malawi. Prior to 1914 there were only minimal pressures on the Chewa as a result of the European presence. The comparative calm of the early colonial years came to end with World War One. Demands for African service as soldiers and carriers, and in addition to produce food and transport it to Lake Nyasa, met among the Chewa people with incredulity. Against the military labour demands, and the civil oppression which they engendered, the Chewa found an answer in the nyau societies, whose basic structure was utilized as a means of opposition not only to recruitment, but also to European institutions generally. But nevertheless, the Great War brought changes to Chewa culture, Against this, the nyau societies remained principal foci of group reaction. Notes.