Not a very good analogy.
In the history you described, my sympathies lie with the blacks of Zimbavwe, I had followed most of the history African southern tier for years now. Having read the relatively recent book re: King Leopold's conquest of the Congo is somewhat emblematic; though the Brits had a more humane approach to the lands they conquered.
I host 2 radio shows in Connecticut. the first devoted to world music, with a decided predilection to music of Africa; primarily the countries of the DRC ( what a misnomer ), Kenya, Zambia, and Zimbvavwe---my faves there, being Thomas Mamfumo and, naturally, Oliver Mtukuudzi ( both exiled during the 70's by the whites ); what is so striking about most of the music emanating from these lands is the sheer brilliance/artistry and most striking, the joi de vive, after all that has been perpetrated upon them and still occurs.
I bekieve that there should have been some accommodation between the white land owner and the native population during the transition period you were in ( was it still called Rhodesia in the early 70's? )...but the leadership was harsh, machinean, and pandering. Now that country is in shambles. Reading now, Dark Star; Paul Theroux's extraordinary journey through parts of Africa. His description of Zimbavwe is heart breaking.
Do you know Tony Bird? A white born in Malawi. Check out his music describing your former home. Especially the songs Rift Valley and Sorry Africa.
lazarre |
