The Representation of the British Government in Zimbabwean Nationalist Propaganda, 1965–80

Abstract

This article explores the ways in which the two main African nationalist opposition groups in Rhodesia portrayed Britain in their media output. It uses a variety of sources, including newspapers, magazines, radio, and television programmes to recreate the key messages of the Zimbabwe African National Union and Zimbabwe African People's Union during the Unilateral Declaration of Independence period (1965–80). It argues that both groups recognised the importance of using propaganda for political purposes and developed an image of Britain as they believed it should be seen by the World. It further suggests, however, that this depiction of Britain was not always consistently applied, and that wider pressures can be seen at play. At times they claimed that the British were on the side of the rebellious settlers, and not to be trusted. Yet on other occasions they keenly asserted that, as the colonial power, the British Government had responsibility for Rhodesia and should be the focus of negotiations. In looking at these issues, this exploration of the propaganda war seeks to expand the historiography of Britain, Rhodesia, and the Zimbabwean nationalist movement.