Nice example in original wrappers the Proceedings of the Royal Geographical Society for November, 1890, including Edward Arthur Maund's text: Zambezia, the new British Possession in Central South Africa, with 2 folding maps:
- Matabele Land
- A Map of Africa Showing the Boundaries and Agreements
E.A. Maund's 1890 article, "Zambezia, the New British Possession in Central South Africa," provides a detailed view of Zambezia, an area now part of Zimbabwe and Zambia, during a time when Britain was expanding its control in Africa. This period, known as the 'Scramble for Africa,' saw European countries, including Britain, dividing Africa among themselves for colonization and resource exploitation.
In 1890, Britain's interest in Africa was growing, particularly with the British South Africa Company, led by Cecil Rhodes, gaining a charter to promote British colonization in Zambezia. This move marked the beginning of Rhodesia, named after Rhodes. Maund's article, written during this time, focuses on the geography, resources, and people of Zambezia, often viewing them as opportunities for British benefit. This approach reflects the common European perspective of the time, where African regions were primarily seen as sources for materials and trade.
Maund's writings coincide with the industrial revolution, which drove European nations to seek new resources. It also reflects the racial thinking of that era, which often justified taking over other lands. He talks about Zambezia's potential for farming and mining, highlighting the economic reasons behind Britain's interest in the region.
Edward Arthur Maund
Edward Arthur Maund (1851 – March 17, 1932) was an important figure in the exploration of Africa and in the early development of Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe. He was educated at Hurstpierpoint College and later at Peterhouse, Cambridge, starting in 1873. After his studies, Maund moved to South Africa.
Maund played a significant role in British efforts to establish settlements in Rhodesia. He served in the Bechuanaland Field Force under Sir Charles Warren during the Warren Expedition in Bechuanaland (modern-day Botswana) from 1884 to 1885. Later, he was involved in Mashonaland, a region in Zimbabwe, from 1889 to 1896.
One of his notable actions was delivering a message to Lobengula, the king of the Ndebele people, telling him that Britain had declared Bechuanaland a protectorate. Maund saw the potential for mining in Mashonaland and worked with George Cawston, a London financier, and Lord Gifford to get mining rights. However, Cecil Rhodes, another key figure in the colonization of Rhodesia, was also interested in these mining rights, leading to a complex situation known as the Rudd Concession.
Maund challenged this concession and went to London with two leaders from Lobengula's community to tell Queen Victoria about the situation and ask for her help. Despite returning with advice from the Colonial Secretary for Lobengula to be cautious, Maund eventually had to support Rhodes' push for a royal charter, which Lobengula was suspicious of.
After these events, Maund stopped being politically active but continued to contribute to the development of Salisbury (now Harare), the capital of Rhodesia. He was married to Elenora Maund, and they had a daughter, Cecily Elenora Miele Maund, born in 1895 in Salisbury. Notably, Cecil John Rhodes and Leander Starr Jameson were her baptism sponsors.
Overall, Edward Arthur Maund played a significant role in the British colonization of Southern Africa, particularly in Rhodesia, through his exploration, diplomatic efforts, and involvement in colonial politics.