Much of the research and study of the formation of Sierra Leone focuses almost exclusively on the role of the so-called Creoles, or descendants of ex-slaves from Europe, North America, Jamaica, and Africa living in the colony. In this book, Joseph J. Bangura cuts through this typical narrative surrounding the making of the British colony, and instead offers a fresh look at the role of the often overlooked indigenous Temne-speakers. Bangura explores, however, the socio-economic formation, establishment, and evolution of Freetown, from the perspective of different Temne-speaking groups, including market women, religious figures, and community leaders and the complex relationships developed in the process. Examining key issues, such as the politics of belonging, African agency, and the creation of national identities, Bangura offers an account of Sierra Leone that sheds new perspectives on the social history of the colony.

'Joseph J. Bangura, in a revisionist history of Sierra Leone, argues convincingly that African identities, such as Temne and Krio, were constructed and transformed in the dynamic interplay between Freetown and its rural hinterland. This compelling social history draws on a broad range of materials to analyze the contributions of farmers and traders, women and men, and Muslims and Christians in Sierra Leonean past.' John H. Hanson, Indiana University, Bloomington
'The Temne of Sierra Leone has great value and scholastic merit for anyone looking to learn about overlooked indigenous contributions to Sierra Leonean history and West African identity formation. Through careful research, and by focusing deeply and specifically on the threads of localized identity, Bangura has woven Temne and non-Creole contributions back into historiography.' Jeremiah Garsha, Africa Today

Joseph J. Bangura is an Associate Professor of History and Director of the African Studies Program at Kalamazoo College, Michigan. He holds a Ph.D. in African history from Dalhousie University, Canada and has published widely on the colonial history of Sierra Leone and Freetown.