Limitations and Ambiguities of Colonialism in Guinea-Bissau. Examining the Creole and “Civilized” Space in Colonial Society

Abstract

Abstract:This paper is about the exploration of discrepancies between words and deeds of Portuguese colonial rule in Guinea-Bissau, Portugal pretending to “integrate” and “enable” into colonial society those individuals of African origin who were deemed to be “civilized.” The essay illustrates potentials and limitations of margins of maneuver of those supposedly subjected under colonial rule. Against this background I will analyze the transformations, continuities, and ruptures of creole identities throughout time, showing how identitarian categories and classifications evolved, changed, and disappeared. It will be shown how the intersection with other identities has been a key characteristic of creole identity over time. In doing so, the analysis focuses on different areas, such as population demographics and classifications, education, and political participation.