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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:South Asians in East Africa (1880-1920) with a Particular Focus on Zanzibar: Toward a Historical Explanation of Economic Success of Middlemen Minority
Author:Oonk, GijsbertISNI
Year:2006
Periodical:African and Asian Studies
Volume:5
Issue:1
Pages:57-89
Language:English
Geographic terms:East Africa
Zanzibar
Subjects:Indians
entrepreneurs
economic history
Economics and Trade
History and Exploration
Ethnic and Race Relations
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
External link:https://doi.org/10.1163/156920906775768282
Abstract:The main objective of this article is to falsify the common historical image of South Asians in Zanzibar and East Africa. Most studies, a priori, assume the outstanding business success of the Asian minority in East Africa. In explaining Asians' economic success, they emphasize common explanations and theories, such as hard work, having a superior business mind, using ethnic resources for capital accumulation, and knowledge of (international) markets. In this article the author explains the success of South Asians in Zanzibar and East Africa from a historical point of view. His main argument is that South Asians started from a far more favourable socioeconomic position compared to their African counterparts. They were more accustomed to a money economy and the concept of interest than Swahili entrepreneurs. In addition, they knew how to read, write and produce account books. Finally, they had access to the rulers, and were able to negotiate profitable terms of trade. Nevertheless, many Asian entrepreneurs were not successful and went bankrupt. Therefore, the success of South Asians in East Africa may be explained as the outcome of a 'trial and error' process. The successful remained in East Africa, whereas others left. India remained a safety net for those who did not make out, as well as a source for new recruitment of traders, shopkeepers and clerks. Bibliogr., notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]
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