Breaking the Myths is a Heritage Lottery Funded project examining the geographical, geopolitical and cultural impacts of WW1 on Africa. This project will explore:
The involvement & contributions of Africans to WW1
The effect of WWI on African communities
The impact of WWI on African women and families
The legacy of WWI on current conflicts, migration and political structures in Africa
Key Speakers:
Professor David Killingray
Africans and The First World War
I will look at three initial questions relating to the war itself: a total global war, periodisation, and the role of civilians. Then I will look at whether apparent public lack of awareness of African’s role in the Great War is due to ‘myths’, silences, or lack of knowledge, before turning briefly to examine how Africans were recruited for the war effort, the roles they performed, the socio-economic and cultural impact of the war years, and how this African imperial contribution might be viewed one hundred years later.
Dr Anne Samson
Feet of Endurance- WW1 in Africa
I will consider why the campaigns in Africa were regarded as side-shows by most of the European powers. Using specific case studies from West, South and East Africa, I will show how the perceived discriminatory practices were the result of British military expediency and military policy which permeated the Empire. The discussion will also show how relationships were affected by micro-nations serving alongside each other.
Marika Sherwood
All that we don't know about WW1 in Africa
I will give a very brief introduction to the history of Africa before moving on to how many African soldiers fought, for both the Allies and the Germans forces, how many died and how many were incapacitated. I will discuss the total lack of knowledge about the devastating impact of the war in Africa, – crops taken, women probably raped, the effect of the ‘recruitment’ of troops and their being away for so long and how the affected villages coped.
Guest of Honour: Helen Grant MP of Maidstone and The Weald
Free event with music, lunch and refreshments
Venue: Lecture Hall, Sessions House, Kent County Council, Maidstone Kent ME14 1XQ
To book a place call: 01795 420455
or email: info@diversityhouse.org.uk
