Final answer:
Nationalism, embodied by leaders like Jomo Kenyatta and expressed through movements such as the Mau Mau Uprising in Kenya, was a driving force behind the independence of both Kenya and Nigeria from British rule. Nationalist movements in these countries were fueled by colonial exploitation, desire for self-determination, and the pursuit of national interests. Post-independence challenges related to tribal loyalties and political parties demonstrated the ongoing complexities of nationalism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Role of Nationalism in Kenya and Nigeria's Independence
Nationalism played a crucial role in the independence movements of Kenya and Nigeria. In Kenya, the formation of the Kenya African Union (KAU) in 1944 and the leadership of Jomo Kenyatta marked the beginning of a focused struggle against British colonial rule. The Mau Mau Uprising, a violent rebellion against the white settler government, reflected the intense desire for autonomy and highlighted the exploitative nature of colonial rule, which fueled nationalist sentiments. This movement, supported both domestically and by African Americans, eventually paved the way for Kenya's independence as the British recognized the untenable position of their colonial government, leading to the formation of a native government in 1963 with Kenyatta at its helm.
Similarly, in Nigeria, nationalist movements emerged in response to colonial exploitation, especially after World War II, when imperial powers demanded more resources from their colonies without fair compensation. These movements coalesced into a powerful force that led Britain to grant independence to Nigeria in 1960, realizing the unsustainable nature of holding onto the colony against increasing nationalist pressure. Nationalism in both countries was driven by a sense of pride, the desire for self-determination, and the pursuit of national interests over global cooperation.
Despite the struggle, post-independence periods in Kenya and Nigeria were also characterized by challenges, as tribal loyalties and political parties caused conflict, showcased by post-election violence in Kenya in 2008. Leaders like Kenyatta, however, also contributed positively by promoting social welfare and supporting African farmers and education.