A Class Analysis of the Bureaucratic Process in Mali

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Periodical article

Title:	A Class Analysis of the Bureaucratic Process in Mali
Author:	Meillassoux, Claude
Year:	1970
Periodical:	Journal of Development Studies
Volume:	6
Issue:	2
Period:	January
Pages:	97-110
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Mali
Subjects:	bureaucracy Development and Technology Politics and Government
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1080/00220387008421316
Abstract:	Prior to French colonization, in Mali a native aristocratic and slave society was in the process of developing. This development was frozen by the conquest, but the hitherto dominant aristocracy was maintained in an inferior, menial government position. The lack of industrial development did not permit the emergence of capitalist classes, while administrative growth gave rise to a comparatively numerous and able bureaucracy. African trade remained in the hands of a rich but illiterate Malian bourgeoisie. The colonial crisis abruptly brought these forces into competition for power, with the victory of the bureaucracy as the outcome. The question is raised whether this success is indicative of the emergence of a new ruling class in Mali, or, if not, to what extent the phenomenon remains susceptible of class analysis. Ref., summary.