Servants and Employers in Zambia 1900-1985: The Anthropology of Contemporary Zambia

Distant Companions: Servants and Employers in Zambia, 1900–1985 (The Anthropology of Contemporary Issues)

by Karen Tranberg Hansen

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Language	:	English
File size	:	7621 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	342 pages

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The relationship between servants and employers in Zambia has been a complex and evolving one, shaped by the country's colonial and post-colonial history. This article draws on anthropological research to provide a nuanced understanding of the social and economic dynamics that have shaped this relationship.

Colonial Zambia

During the colonial period (1891-1964),the vast majority of Zambians were employed as servants in the homes of white settlers. These servants were often young men and women from rural areas who were drawn to the cities in search of work. They worked long hours for low pay, and their living conditions were often poor.

The relationship between servants and employers was often characterized by tension and conflict. White settlers often viewed their servants as inferior, and they treated them with disdain. Servants, in turn, resented the way they were treated, and they often resisted their employers' authority.

Despite the tensions, there were also moments of cooperation and mutual respect between servants and employers. Some servants developed close relationships with their employers' families, and they became trusted members of the household. Others used their positions to gain access to education and other opportunities.

Post-Colonial Zambia

After Zambia gained independence in 1964, the relationship between servants and employers began to change. The new government implemented policies that aimed to improve the working conditions of servants, and it encouraged Zambians to take pride in their work.

As a result of these changes, the status of servants began to improve. They were no longer seen as inferior, and they were treated with more respect. They also began to earn higher wages and enjoy better living conditions.

However, the relationship between servants and employers remained complex. There were still instances of tension and conflict, and some employers continued to exploit their servants.

The Anthropology of Servants and Employers

The relationship between servants and employers in Zambia has been a subject of anthropological research for many years. Anthropologists have studied the social and economic dynamics that have shaped this relationship, and they have sought to understand the experiences of both servants and employers.

This research has provided valuable insights into the complex nature of the servant-employer relationship. It has shown that this relationship is not simply a matter of power and domination, but that it is also a complex web of social and economic relations.

The research has also shown that the servant-employer relationship has changed over time. In colonial Zambia, servants were often treated as inferior, but in post-colonial Zambia, they have gained more respect and dignity.

The relationship between servants and employers in Zambia has been a complex and evolving one. It has been shaped by the country's colonial and post-colonial history, and it continues to be a subject of anthropological research.

This research has provided valuable insights into the social and economic dynamics that have shaped this relationship. It has shown that this relationship is not simply a matter of power and domination, but that it is also a complex web of social and economic relations.

The research has also shown that the servant-employer relationship has changed over time. In colonial Zambia, servants were often treated as inferior, but in post-colonial Zambia, they have gained more respect and dignity.

The relationship between servants and employers is a complex and multifaceted one. It is a relationship that is shaped by history, culture, and economics. It is a relationship that is constantly evolving, and it is a relationship that will continue to be a subject of anthropological research for many years to come.

Distant Companions: Servants and Employers in Zambia, 1900–1985 (The Anthropology of Contemporary Issues)

by Karen Tranberg Hansen

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7621 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	342 pages

FREE