The Politics of the British Cameroons Plebiscites: Expectations, Calculations and Strategies

In the closing stages of its quest for independence, the British Cameroons found itself at a critical juncture when the United Nations decided it was not economically viable to stand on its own and should instead unite with one of its neighbors. Three plebiscites were held between 1959 and 1961 for the people to decide on their fate. Those plebiscites stimulated conflicting interests from concerned parties. The plebiscites of 1961 were particularly keenly contested and resulted in an even split of the Territory between Nigeria and Cameroun, profoundly affecting the destinies of both countries. This book analyses the interplay of foreign and domestic actors in the British Cameroons plebiscites and the impact of the choices made. Students of African history will find it informative and valuable, as it throws light on events that broke new ground on the continent.