Kaunda on Violence (Signed Copy)

London: Collins. Very Good in Very Good dust jacket. 1980. First Edition. Original Boards. 0002161435 . With dedication & initials of Kenneth Kaunda on front free endpaper dated 23rd March 1981 in the State House, Lusaka. Edges slightly foxed & slightly soiled. Slight wear to spine, covers, corners & dustjacket. ; Kenneth David Kaunda (1924-2021) was a prominent figure in African politics, best known as the founding father and first President of Zambia, serving from 1964 to 1991. Born in Lubwa, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) , to missionary parents, Kaunda was deeply influenced by Christian teachings, which later underpinned his political philosophy and approach to leadership. He was educated at a missionary school and initially worked as a teacher before moving into politics. Kaunda's political career began in earnest in the early 1950s when he became a leader in the campaign against British colonial rule. He was instrumental in the formation of the Zambian African National Congress and later the United National Independence Party (UNIP) , through which he advocated for independence. Kaunda's commitment to non-violent protest was heavily influenced by figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. , distinguishing him from other leaders of his time who took up arms in their fight against colonialism. Under Kaunda's leadership, Zambia achieved independence in 1964, and he became the nation's first President. His presidency was marked by efforts to promote unity across diverse ethnic groups under the motto "One Zambia, One Nation." Kaunda also played a significant role in regional politics, supporting liberation movements in Southern Africa. However, his later years in office were challenged by economic difficulties and growing discontent with his one-party state policy, leading to his electoral defeat in 1991. Kaunda was also an author; his book "Kaunda on Non-Violence" is a collection of speeches and essays outlining his philosophy of non-violent resistance. In this work, Kaunda articulates his belief in the power of non-violence as the most effective means of achieving political and social change. Drawing from the influences of Gandhi and King, he discusses the moral and practical implications of non-violence, arguing that it fosters a more just and humane society. "Kaunda on Non-Violence" provides insightful reflections on the struggles for independence and civil rights. It serves not only as a historical document but as a testament to Kaunda's deep conviction in the principles of peace and reconciliation. The book is a compelling read for those interested in the methodologies of non-violent protest and the broader context of African political movements. Kaunda's legacy is complex; he is celebrated for his role in liberating Zambia and his early presidency, yet his later years in power are critiqued for economic mismanagement and political repression. Nonetheless, "Kaunda on Non-Violence" offers a unique perspective into the mind of one of Africa's stalwart advocates for peace and unity, highlighting his contributions to the continent's political landscape and his unwavering commitment to non-violent principles. ; 21 x 13.4 x 2.2 cms; 184 pages .