ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the history, politics and society of Somali territory. It explores that the different colonial experiences of the Somali territories influenced post-colonial Somalia in ways that it continues to grapple with today. Somali society is primarily defined by a shared culture and religion. Somali society practices the division of labor whereby men are responsible for large livestock such as camels, the water wells, conflict resolution, defending the family and their property and taking part in communal meetings. Women are in charge of building and dismantling the Somali aqal or house, preparing meals, taking care of smaller animals like goats and raising the children. The impact of colonialism disrupted all aspects of Somali society. The resistance to Britain in the Somali territories was led by Sayyid Mohamed Abdulle Hassan. The consequences of the 20-year conflict between the Sayyid and the colonizers were devastating to the Somalis and their territories.
