War in Pre-Colonial Eastern Africa — 2007

The Patterns and Meanings of State-Level Conflict in the 19th Century

By Richard J. Reid

War in Pre-Colonial Eastern Africa examines the nature and objectives of violence in the region in the nineteenth century. It is particularly concerned with highland Ethiopia and the Great Lakes. It will be of use to those interested in military history and to anyone involved in modern development and conflict resolution seeking to understand the deeper historical roots of African warfare.

Contents:
I THEORY & CONTEXT
African War in Historical & Theoretical Perspective
Antiquity & Inheritance
Restorative Violence & the Weight of History

II ARMIES Tools & Tactics
Organisation & Function

III PROCESS, IMPACT & CULTURE Cost & Profit
War & Economic Change
Violence & Society
The Resolution & Avoidance of Conflict
The Culture of Conflict
Conclusions: War & the Making of State & Society