Black Heart

Black Heart unveils the dual legacy of Stewart Gore-Browne, a remarkable figure whose journey intertwined with the colonial and post-colonial histories of Northern Rhodesia, now Zambia. On one hand, Gore-Browne was a statesman and advocate for African rights, championing progressive legislation and fostering dialogue that challenged the colonial status quo. As Northern Rhodesia’s representative at pivotal conferences, he tirelessly advanced African interests in imperial circles. On the other, he was a quintessential English squire, managing his sprawling Shiwa Ngandu estate while hosting an eclectic mix of titled guests, political figures, and African leaders—long before such integration was socially acceptable among the settler elite. His life exemplified the rare convergence of privilege, reformist ideals, and a profound commitment to equitable race relations in colonial Africa.

Drawing from an extraordinary archive of personal letters, diaries, and official documents, this biography sheds light on the forces that shaped Gore-Browne’s transformation from aristocratic officer to a pioneer of African nationalism. The work examines his family ties, his wartime experiences, and the moral convictions that led him to embrace African self-governance. Through interviews with key figures, including President Kenneth Kaunda, and meticulous research across continents, the book delves into Gore-Browne’s complex identity and enduring influence. Combining political history with personal narrative, Black Heart offers an intimate portrait of a man who stood out as both a settler and a champion of African liberation, making a profound impact on the trajectory of modern Zambia.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1977.