Kenyan History

As with many of the African nations, a succinct history of Kenya is not altogether possible or clear. Decreed toward the end of the 1800s as a protectorate of the British Empire, this was probably the first time that the country, as we now know it, was formally recognised. For the 4 hundred years before, the coastline was ravaged, first by the Portuguese and subsequently the Sultan of Oman in the search for wealth and slaves.

Colonial Rule

Once under British guidance, the land was separated out amongst the European settlers culminating after the second world war with a sudden influx of around 60,000 new settlers. As the local farmers and tribe folk became dislodged, anger and mistrust began to rise and, following on from the de-colonisation that was sweeping its way through Africa during the 60s the country was handed independence in 1963 after ten years of guerrilla warfare and the famous Mau Mau uprisings.

Since independence, the country has been through 3 presidents who have all left their mark on the people and the economy. Through this period of adjustment the country has just about managed to stay on an even keel, and, with tourism booming and a stable government, the country is due to continue its deserved rise in fortunes.