ABSTRACT
In this paper I attempt to give an analytical history of a process of development that occurred over past centuries in Buganda: the development of modes of succession to the throne. I shall not, however, simply narrate the events in the order in which they occurred: rather, I shall reconstruct the analysis in much the order in which it occurred to me. The reasons for this eccentric arrangement will emerge as I proceed: but, briefly, I have chosen it in order to emphasize how little this history can properly be regarded as a straightforward presentation of data. I do not mean that it is not a factual account – indeed, I take time to argue the contrary; but I do mean that it must not be regarded as merely objective. Though I shall by the end have presented an historical account, it is equally my aim to raise and discuss problems of historical method.
