GUM OF MECAlS LIBERATION STRUGGLE - KORA

I
Preface
have written this volume from the perspective of one who has spent
more than 30 years of his life concerned with developments in Africa. I
find, in retrospect, that my experience falls into four phases, each one
corresponding roughly to a phase of recent African history. So I have
divided my writing about Africa into four parts.
The first, "The Gathering Rain Clouds," reflects Africa under colonial
domination and my introduction to it.
The second, *The Wmds of Change," deals with the relatively uncomplicated
period of Africa's progress toward independence and with the
growth of anticolonial movements. There was an aura of excitement and
optimism during this phase and recognition that something special was
being born,
The third pan, "Ym of 'Ihrmoil," deals with the mumatic period that
began in mid-1960 with the independence of the Congo. The major
international powers became involved. Gued Mare was adopted as a
necessity by those engaged in the liberation struggle. Division among
African movements and leaders foretold conflicts destined to continue long
after the colonial powers had left.
The fourth part, "The Fircal Codict," begins with the military coup in
Portugal in 1974, which overthrew the dictatorial regime established by
S h .
It opened the way for the independence of Portuguese colonies
aed quickened the struggle for independence in Zimbabwe. Ccdict de-
veloped in Western Sahara as Spain relinquished its conml. The super-
powers were increasingly drawn into a contest on the African continent,
focusing on Angola and South Africa.
The fieal chapter, "You've Got to Take the Long View," forms a
conclusion.
It is not thet these four phases differ totally from one another; yet they
show enough connast to provide a convenient fmework for looking at
historical events, corresponding changes in U.S, policy, and the changing
character of my own experiences. I hope that this approach may add to an
understanding of events in Africa, as well as of the contact within which
U.S. policy has developed and been carried out.
Obviously this book does not pretend to be a history, nor docs it
consistently trace developments in any given country, even within the time
span of my own activity. Rather, as its subtitle suggests, it attempts to give
glimpses into the struggle for independence in Africa based on my own -
experiences and observations.
GEORGE M. HOUSER