As Under Secretary of State for the Colonies in 1907, Winston S.
Churchill toured Britain's territories in East Africa. My African
Journey, first published in 1908, documents his travels and the people
he met; he waxes lyrical on the natural beauty of Uganda and goes on to
explore Egypt and Sudan via the White Nile. More than a travelogue
however, Churchill, now in his 30s, turns his attention towards issues
of government and development, suggesting that the best way to tap the
latent wealth of East Africa was the development of the railway system.
His thoughts on settlement, race and government provide an intriguing
insight into contemporary imperialism and African history and
fascinating reading for both Churchill enthusiasts and those interested
in the historical relationship between Britain and its colonies towards
the end of the British Empire.