British Security Files on African Leaders Before Independence
The British Security Service (MI5) closed files on African leaders who were fighting for independence are compiled in this collection. From British National Archives.
Collection Overview
During the period of British colonization in Africa, the British government closely monitored individuals whom they perceived as a threat to their colonial rule. The British MI5 conducted surveillance and maintained files on African leaders and citizens who were involved in the fight for Independence. These included leaders from countries such as Ghana, Kenya and Nigeria. These files were believed to contain information on individuals' connections to Communist organizations as well as their affiliations with various African rights and independence movements, including associations with Russian and communist sympathizers. This surveillance took place in the years leading up to the independence of African countries. Many African leaders were detained or imprisoned as they pursued their quest for independence from colonial rule. These historical documents which were once considered “Top Secret” are now available online and accessible.