Rumors of a violent movement taking place in the Kikuyu tribal area
Rebel Kikuyas began assembling in the forests of western Kenya around 1950.
Fueled by anger over loss of land, they began burning fields of European farmers.
Differences between Mau Mau movement and previous revolts in Algeria and Cyprus:
Based in rural areas
Mau Mau was based on tribal rites and ceremonies
Violence was frequently typified by massacres
Overwhelming British military and police response with massive detainment and torture
Mau Mau insurgents suffered the brunt of casualties
Repression destroyed Mau Mau
Mau Mau movement failed in the field.
Governmental policy was ruthless.
Over 90,000 Mau Mau suspects were interned during the state of emergency.
Conditions of custody were appalling.
Thousands of suspects were tortured.
Kenya would gain its independence, and a former suspected Mau Mau exile would become its president.