Precolonial African Intergroup Relations in Kauru and Pengana Polities of Central Nigerian Highlands 1800-1900

The study examines the interrelationships which evolved among the rural polities of Kauru and Pengana hills in the Central Nigerian Highlands. It analyses the relations within and between these polities and between them and the Islamic states which emerged in their neighbourhood and which tried to bring the polities under their control. It considers both patterns of peaceful coexistence and military confrontations. The volume is a significant contribution to the growing body of literature on the historiography of African intergroup relations. It is a major addition in the search for the basis of conflict resolutions in North Central Nigeria.

The Author: John Nengel was born at Gurum, a suburb of the city of Jos capital of Plateau State, Nigeria. He obtained his first degree in History at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and went in for the M.A. at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He did research for his Ph.D. at the University of Jos where he is a member of the academic staff with the Department of History. A number of his articles have been published in books and journals. His research interests are in the study of Intergroup Relations, Islam, Christianity, Labour and Military History.

Contents: Cultural and linguistic groups of the Central Nigerian Highlands - Nature and basis of economic, political and social organisations - Precolonial intergroup relations in the rural societies of Kauru and Pengana hills - Military alliances and cultural intercourse.