I Say to You

Ethnic Politics and the Kalenjin in Kenya

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Anthropology, Political Science
Cover of the book I Say to You by Gabrielle Lynch, University of Chicago Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Gabrielle Lynch ISBN: 9780226498096
Publisher: University of Chicago Press Publication: September 26, 2011
Imprint: University of Chicago Press Language: English
Author: Gabrielle Lynch
ISBN: 9780226498096
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
Publication: September 26, 2011
Imprint: University of Chicago Press
Language: English

In 2007 a disputed election in Kenya erupted into a two-month political crisis that led to the deaths of more than a thousand people and the displacement of almost seven hundred thousand. Much of the violence fell along ethnic lines, the principal perpetrators of which were the Kalenjin, who lashed out at other communities in the Rift Valley. What makes this episode remarkable compared to many other instances of ethnic violence is that the Kalenjin community is a recent construct: the group has only existed since the mid-twentieth century. Drawing on rich archival research and vivid oral testimony, I Say to You is a timely analysis of the creation, development, political relevance, and popular appeal of the Kalenjin identity as well as its violent potential.

 

Uncovering the Kalenjin’s roots, Gabrielle Lynch examines the ways in which ethnic groups are socially constructed and renegotiated over time. She demonstrates how historical narratives of collective achievement, migration, injustice, and persecution constantly evolve. As a consequence, ethnic identities help politicians mobilize support and help ordinary people lay claim to space, power, and wealth. This kind of ethnic politics, Lynch reveals, encourages a sense of ethnic difference and competition, which can spiral into violent confrontation and retribution.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

In 2007 a disputed election in Kenya erupted into a two-month political crisis that led to the deaths of more than a thousand people and the displacement of almost seven hundred thousand. Much of the violence fell along ethnic lines, the principal perpetrators of which were the Kalenjin, who lashed out at other communities in the Rift Valley. What makes this episode remarkable compared to many other instances of ethnic violence is that the Kalenjin community is a recent construct: the group has only existed since the mid-twentieth century. Drawing on rich archival research and vivid oral testimony, I Say to You is a timely analysis of the creation, development, political relevance, and popular appeal of the Kalenjin identity as well as its violent potential.

 

Uncovering the Kalenjin’s roots, Gabrielle Lynch examines the ways in which ethnic groups are socially constructed and renegotiated over time. She demonstrates how historical narratives of collective achievement, migration, injustice, and persecution constantly evolve. As a consequence, ethnic identities help politicians mobilize support and help ordinary people lay claim to space, power, and wealth. This kind of ethnic politics, Lynch reveals, encourages a sense of ethnic difference and competition, which can spiral into violent confrontation and retribution.

More books from University of Chicago Press

Cover of the book Arts of Wonder by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Mahler by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations, Ninth Edition by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book The I in Team by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Reading Clocks, Alla Turca by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Practical Healthcare Epidemiology by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Infinite Nature by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Freak Show by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Data-Centric Biology by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Spiritual Despots by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Sea Monsters by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book People of Plenty by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Bombs Away by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book Human Capital by Gabrielle Lynch
Cover of the book An Ecology of Happiness by Gabrielle Lynch
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy