ABSTRACT
Violence as an instrument of power is exercised by the army—one of the most efficient instruments for establishing a ruler's influence. In maintaining law and order, enforcing authority, and protecting the interests of the colonial powers, the soldiers and policemen employed intimidation, undisguised coercion, and violence to support their predatory inclinations. As payment of wages was irregular, many soldiers resorted to using force and violence against the Zambian passengers passing through the Pedicle. Violence against Northern Rhodesians is a colonial legacy that was condoned by the Belgian administration. The Force Publique were left free to use force and violence not only against the Congolese but also against Northern Rhodesians transiting through the Pedicle. Max Weber gives special attention to the structure and social organization of the military forces. The Congolese soldiers drank excessively, beat up civilians, stole their valuables, set fire to villages, and raped women at will.
