kuperism

Kuperism refers to the economic and political policies implemented in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) during the colonial era, largely associated with the mining magnate and politician Cecil Rhodes and his successors. While the term itself is not as widely recognized as "Rhodesianism," it encapsulates a specific approach to colonial administration focused on extracting mineral wealth and maintaining a dominant white minority rule.

The core tenets of kuperism involved the exploitation of labor, particularly African workers in the copper mines, and the establishment of a capitalist economy heavily reliant on these resources. This system was designed to benefit European settlers and the British Empire, with limited investment in the social and economic development of the indigenous population. Land alienation, discriminatory practices, and the imposition of taxes were common features, ensuring a subservient labor force.

Politically, kuperism aimed to preserve the power and privileges of the white settlers. This often meant resisting calls for greater African representation and self-governance, even as neighboring African nations began to achieve independence. The ultimate goal was to integrate Northern Rhodesia into a larger British South African federation, further solidifying white control. The legacy of kuperism is intertwined with the struggle for Zambian independence and the ongoing challenges of economic inequality and post-colonial development.