The struggle for independence in Kenya

Early political associations (1919-1939)

• East African Association (1921): led by Harry Thuku; opposed the kipande, forced labour and high taxes.
• Young Kikuyu Association (1921), later the Kikuyu Central Association (KCA) (1924).
• Young Kavirondo Association (1921) in Nyanza.
• Ukamba Members Association (1938) opposed destocking.

After 1939

• Kenya African Union (KAU), 1944: national party; Jomo Kenyatta became its leader in 1947.
• Mau Mau: armed struggle mainly for land and freedom. Governor Sir Evelyn Baring declared a State of Emergency on 20 October 1952.
• The Kapenguria Six (Kenyatta, Kaggia, Kubai, Karumba, Ngei, Oneko) were tried and jailed.
• Dedan Kimathi was captured in 1956 and executed in 1957.