The Making of an African Working Class: Politics, Law, and Cultural Protest in the Manual Workers’ Union of Botswana (Anthropology, Culture and Society)

The Making of an African Working Class: Politics, Law, and Cultural Protest in the Manual Workers' Union of Botswana, authored by Pnina Werbner, offers a groundbreaking exploration into the formation of working-class identity among low-paid laborers in Botswana. Published in 2014 by Pluto Press, this book resonates with the spirit of E.P. Thompson's seminal work, *The Making of the English Working Class*, while forging its own unique path in understanding the socio-political landscape of labor in postcolonial Africa. Werbner crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the often-overlooked cultural, legal, ideological, and experiential dimensions that fuel labor activism. Werbner's analysis transcends conventional labor studies by highlighting the fusion of cosmopolitan ideals with local popular cultural expressions in Botswana's Manual Workers' Union. The book illuminates how unionists have skillfully synthesized global labor rights discourse with deeply rooted traditions and values. This dynamic interplay has given rise to a distinct "vernacular" understanding of what it means to be a worker in Botswana one that proudly embraces both ancestral connections to rural life and an awareness of broader, interconnected global labor movements. This nuanced perspective allows workers to demand respect and dignity within a globalized world, while still honoring their heritage. *The Making of an African Working Class* challenges purely legalistic or skeptical interpretations of worker activism. Werbner meticulously demonstrates how manual workers' protests and legal challenges against the government (often their employer) are not simply opportunistic maneuvers but are profoundly rooted in ethics, a commitment to social justice, and a deep understanding of the law. The book reveals how the pursuit of legal redress becomes a powerful expression of moral outrage and a demand for equitable treatment, thereby showcasing the agency and sophisticated understanding of rights held by these workers. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Werbner paints a vivid picture of how these workers navigate a complex web of legal, social, and cultural forces to assert their rights and improve their working conditions. The book highlights the power of collective action, showcasing how workers in Botswana use a combination of legal strategies and cultural performances to challenge power structures and build a more just society. It's a vital contribution to understanding labor movements in Africa and beyond. This paperback edition, spanning 320 pages, is an essential read for anyone interested in labor studies, African studies, anthropology, political science, and social justice.