A penetração colonial no Planalto de Mueda, 1917-1950

Abstract

This essay aims to understand the context of colonial penetration of the Mueda plateau within the broader context of Portuguese colonial history in Mozambique between 1917 and 1950. The study addresses the main aspects of this process, such as the factors of colonial penetration of the Mueda plateau between 1917 and 1950; the colonial strategies and policies used by the Portuguese in the penetration of the Mueda plateau; and the resistance and reactions of local communities to the colonial presence. During this period, Portuguese colonizers established their presence on the Mueda plateau with the aim of exercising political, economic and social control over the territory. However, the exploitation of natural resources, such as timber and ivory, was a common practice in this region. However, the resistance of the Makonde people, who predominantly inhabited the Mueda plateau, was a constant throughout this process. Revolts and armed conflicts arose, such as strikes and boycotts, expeditions, petitions and protests, the Mope revolt of 1917 to 1918, sabotage and the Mueda Revolt in 1960, which marked important moments in the struggle for the independence of Mozambique and the liberation of the African peoples from colonial rule. At the end of the period studied, the Mueda plateau underwent a process of social and economic reconstruction after the independence of Mozambique in 1975. This process aimed to overcome the negative impacts of colonization and to value local culture and traditions. Through historical and documentary analysis, this essay seeks to contribute to a better understanding of the process of colonial penetration in the Mueda plateau, highlighting its main factors and the colonial presence in the Mueda Plateau. (TRADUÇAO NOSSA)