Introduction

Abstract

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book. This book portrays the liberation struggle as primarily a ZANU PF struggle for independence. It explores how the two ideals of love for one’s country and the notion of honour were appropriated by both Robert Mugabe and the veterans of the war of liberation in justifying the accelerated land reform process between 2000 and 2008. Anchored within classical studies, the book uses Roman history as a basis for explaining the notion of honour. It explores the experiences of migrant minority groups from surrounding countries, notably Malawi, during the nationalist war. The book presents various examples of white women in colonial Zimbabwe to deviate from the dominant narrative which generally reflects the war as a simple bifurcation of the struggle pitting black men against white men.