The Harem, Slavery and British Imperial Culture. Anglo-Muslim Relations in the Late Nineteenth Century * BY DIANE ROBINSON-DUNN.

Abstract

In this stimulating study Professor Robinson-Dunn examines Anglo–Muslim relations through British anti-slavery activities in Egypt and through the activities of newly-established Muslim communities in Britain in the late nineteenth century. Its title provides a fairer reflection of the book than the sub-title which suggests a broader remit. Although British–Muslim relations in India are now and then discussed, more space is devoted to such relations in Egypt. The narrowing down of the field is not without its advantages. On the whole, Robinson-Dunn delivers sound judgements on the issues discussed. The book which is based on carefully selected material from British archives is divided into four main chapters (the Introduction is described as Chapter 1) and is supported by two Appendices. The first relates to the number of slaves manumitted between 1877 and 1897 while the second lists the places of residence of members and contributors of the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society (BFASS). The first Appendix is perhaps more interesting: established from Foreign Office Records and British Parliamentary Papers and requiring an in-depth examination of them, it clearly shows that compared with the period 1877–1881, the number of slaves manumitted in 1882–1886 almost trebles following the British occupation of Egypt in 1882. By the end of the period 1892–1897 the number of manumissions appears considerably less. In setting up this Appendix the author, it must be pointed out, does not seek to justify British imperialism but to trace the evolution in Anglo–Muslim relations in Egypt. The cause of British imperialism was championed by the BFASS, which encouraged British influence in Egypt in the economic, political and military spheres and even petitioned the Foreign Secretary, claiming that extending British rule there would promote the anti-slavery cause (ch. 3).