The Dynamics of Colonial violence : The Inductive System in Uganda

Abstract

This article examines the nature and effects of colonial rule implantation at the local level, with specific reference to the case of Colonial Uganda. The general hypothesis is that any agent of change alien to those people whose way of life this agent is to change radically, will use violence as a main means to bring about the change.

Linking Galtung's basic distinction between physical, psychological, and structural violence to the three stages in the colonial process of conquest, rule establishment, and maintenance of colonial domination, the author presents concrete examples from the history of Colonial Uganda.

It is concluded that a 'successful' change agent would then be one whose aspirations and objec tives merged with those of the people he aspires to change - which is impossible in a colonial set ting, given the very nature of colonialism.