Nationalism is the resistance to sentiments and activity to alien control and in the case of Nigeria, it was a resistance to the British rule. Nigeria’s resistance was in different phases namely the traditional Nationalism phase, the conservative phase, and the radical phase. During these phases, different nationalist championed the nationalist cause and in regard to the conservative phase, Herbert Macaulay was recorded as one of the front-liner nationalist who opposed and resisted the British rule, his activities showed the Pros and Cons of the period.
The conservative phase has been dated to the interwar years (1913-1945) and is the second phase of nationalism and Nigerian resistance to British rule. It was dominated by educated elites like Herbert Macaulay, descendants of returnees or ex-slaves, children and grandchildren of repatriated slaves, western-oriented elites etc. Furthermore, it was recognized as conservative because it was not radical and was not intended to end colonialism.
The conservative phase was characterized by the establishment of political parties which championed a quiet form of resistance. It was evident in the political parties formed during this period, Herbert Macaulay organized two parties namely the Nigeria National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923 and NCNC thus he is not a man to overlook. Herbert Macaulay (1864-1946) was an engineer and politician who established his fame and reputation as the founder of Nigerian nationalism and one of the first leaders to champion the campaign against foreign rule and discrimination by the British in inter war years.
During this period Herbert Macaulay and other nationalist were tolerant to the British ways and this was evident in their attitude of answering loyalty to her majesty even when conferences to champion their development were held. Their approach was conservative and it was visible in the political party activities. Herbert Macaulay and other nationalist used of the press, newspaper and pamphlet like the daily news to address issues and project their grievances and activities.
Symbols of the conservative phase of the nationalist movement in Nigeria was the element of peaceful resistance, element of parochialism, understanding and relating with the black world beyond Nigeria, loyalty to her majesty etc. and Herbert Macaulay unveiled these symbols. Nevertheless, was an important figure of the nationalist movement, looking at the works he published, it related to the wider black world, promoted the idea of freedom, the organization of political party to mention a few. What is of importance is his attempt to resist and champion the cause of a free Nigeria.
Reference
Coleman J. 1971. Nigeria: Background to Nationalism. California. University of California press. P 225
Tekena Tamuno N. 1975. Herbert Macaulay, Nigerian Patriot. London. Heinemann.
Here is a work related to colonialism http://nokviews.com/2017/02/11/colonialism-a-third-world-principle-in-the-international-system/
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