| Abstract: | Objective is to determine whether the modern elite descended from a distinguishable traditional, i.e. pre-colonial, social group or is made up of entirely new men. British administration as established in the first three decades of its rule, depended on a collaborative framework. This framework created opportunities for aspiring African individuals to act as communicators and intermediaries. Conclusion: the modern African elite in Kenya is not derived from a previous, traditional, precolonial elite. Notes, tables. |