Facing Mount Kenya

work by Kenyatta

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June 26, 2026

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Facing Mount Kenya is a seminal work by Jomo Kenyatta, the first president of Kenya. Published in 1938, the book is an ethnographic study of the Kikuyu people, Kenyatta's own ethnic group. It offers a detailed look into their social structures, customs, and beliefs, presenting them from an insider's perspective rather than a colonial one.1

Kenyatta, who was a prominent figure in Kenya's independence movement, used the book to advocate for Kikuyu rights and challenge colonial narratives. The work is considered a significant contribution to anthropology and a crucial text in understanding Kenyan history and identity.21

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Jomo Kenyatta
Entrance into full-time politics
…and published in 1938 as Facing Mount Kenya, a study of the traditional life of the Kikuyu characterized by both insight and a tinge of romanticism. This book signaled another name change, to Jomo (“Burning Spear”) Kenyatta.
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…and published in 1938 as Facing Mount Kenya, a study of the traditional life of the Kikuyu characterized by both insight and a tinge of romanticism. This book signaled another name change, to Jomo (“Burning Spear”) Kenyatta.
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Bronisław Malinowski
Mature career
…introduction to Jomo Kenyatta’s book Facing Mount Kenya (1938), prepared as a diploma thesis under his supervision. (Kenyatta became president of Kenya in 1964.)
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…introduction to Jomo Kenyatta’s book Facing Mount Kenya (1938), prepared as a diploma thesis under his supervision. (Kenyatta became president of Kenya in 1964.)
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