Unrealistic expectations? Zambia's mineworkers from independence to the one-party state, 1964-1972

Abstract

Political scientists have neglected the extent of opposition and resistance to the policies of African states amongst civil society organisations In the immediate post-colonial period. Unionised Zambian mlneworkers expected Independence to bring about a transformation In their work and living conditions, a demand that brought them into conflict with the new Zambian Government and Its dependency on mine revenue. Government attempts to control the behaviour of mineworkers through legislation and the union bureaucracy proved unsuccessful, and popular grassroots challenges to the union leadership, and the Government itself, were only ended by state suppression, and the establishment of a one-party state.