ABSTRACT
IN THE CLOSER union controversy the Baganda found that they could organize themselves effectively for political purposes against the Protectorate government. Moreover, because they were successful in their efforts, the relationship between the Protectorate and the Buganda governments now required subtlety and tact. The Buganda system had been strengthened by the conflict. Chiefs dealt with the British in evident good faith but they stood ready to man their defenses against the Protectorate government should the occasion arise. Collaborationist or not, few Baganda genuinely identified any longer with the Protectorate government. They could have good friends among the members of that government. They could recognize the futility of putting unnecessary obstacles in its way. By their shrewdness, however, they were able to gain the day on all issues which were of fundamental importance to the preservation of Kiganda autonomy.
