... several early historiographies, it was evident that anthropologists and historians alike came to the conclusion that African societies were 'intact' and as a result unaffected by European influences.3 Several Europeans would still maintain that imperialism actually provided significant benefits for African women setting in motion their emancipation. Other historians however, including a significant number of feminist writers, have drawn upon evidence which conveys how gender inequalities were exacerbated as a result of European colonialism. They have successfully backed up their arguments with court records and personal accounts which link European colonialism with women subjugation. In order to gain a full understanding of the negative impact which the western powers had on the indigenous people it is important to examine the pre-colonial period to demonstrate the social changes which were inflicted by Europe initiating changes to the entire infrastructure of African society. Importance also lies on how Europeans perceived the native women, ...

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