Nwando Achebe presents the fascinating history of an Igbo woman, Ahebi Ugbabe, who became king in colonial Nigeria. Ugbabe was exiled from Igboland, became a prostitute, travelled widely, and learned to speak many languages. She became a close companion of Nigerian Igala kings and the British officers who supported her claim to the office of headman, warrant chief, and later, king. In this unique biography, Achebe traces the roots of Ugbabe's rise to fame and fortune. While providing critical perspectives on women, gender, sex and sexuality, and the colonial encounter, she also considers how it was possible for this woman to take on the office and responsibilities of a traditionally male role.

Table of Contents

Ekene / Acknowledgments Nkwado / Preparation: All Trees Grow in the Forest, But the Ora Singled Itself Out; Nkowa / Introduction: Unspoken, Blame the Mouth; Unheard, Blame the Ear 1. Oge NwatakilioThe time of Childhood, c.1880-95; 2. Mgbakpu Ahebi: Exile in Igalaland, c. 1895-1916; 3. Performing Masculinities: HomecomingoAnd She Becomes a Man, c.1916-48; 4. Inside King Ahebi's Palace, c.1916-48; 5. Mastering Masculinities: Ekpe Ahebi MasqueradeoThe Final Insult, c.1931-48 Mmechi / The Conclusion: Ahebi TodayoThe Works That We Do Are the Things By Which We are Remembered Appendix: Select Criminal and Civil Cases in Nsukka Division 1921-1935; Glossary of Enugu-Ezike Chronological terms; Glossary of Igbo and Igala words; Notes; Bibliography; Index

Prizes

An Igbo woman becomes king at a time of extraordinary change in Africa

Reviews

The history of an Igbo woman, born in the late 19th century, who became king in colonial Nigeria, having lived a well traveled and varied life. Author Achebe also steps back and examines the wider perspective of gender roles, sexuality, and colonial studies. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

"An important contribution to the study of modern African history. It will be of special interest to scholars of African history, women's studies, and comparative politics." Anene Ejikeme, Trinity University "An unusual biography and a compelling tale about the life of an extraordinary woman." Stephan F. Miescher, University of California, Santa Barbara