The Lebanese in Senegal : a history of the relationship between an immigrant community and its French and African rulers

• Main Author: Boumedouha, Said
• Published: University of Birmingham 1987
• Subjects: 305.892756920633
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.603511

The main aim of the thesis is to explore the evolution,of the Lebanese community in Senegal and the circumstances responsible for the expansion and contraction of its trade since the early immigrants arrived in Senegal. It is argued in this thesis that Lebanese trade has gone through several periods of contraction and expansion. These were caused largely by external factors, which then affected the internal dynamics of the community. The Senegalese mono-crop groundnut export economy experienced several crises during the colonial and post-colonial periods, and these had profound repercussions all groups living in Senegal. The French during the colonial period and the Senegalese during the post-colonial era both identified the Lebanese as scapegoats at times of crisis. Anti-Lebanese propaganda and measures always followed. Lebanese trade contracted in consequence and the community felt insecure because of the fear of possible mass expulsions_ During these difficult times the Lebanese maintained a strong sense of cohesion. When Senegal experienced a degree of economic prosperity, Lebanese trade flourished in consequence. Immigration increased substantially, especially during the colonial era, because it was not regarded as a source of great concern to other groups. Paradoxically, however, this did not help the community to preserve its cohesion. On the contrary, intra-Lebanese cleavages based on religious and political differences and personal rivalries, became rife.