ABSTRACT
East Africa offered a unique opportunity for the elaboration and application of the philanthropic traditions and practices developed in India. Nearly all the Asians came from northwest India, where monsoon winds had fostered an age-old trade with East Africa. After arrival in East Africa the immigrants often went through several weeks or months of uncertainty and privation while determining their initial location and employment. Although the number coming to East Africa grew almost every year, and the Asians continued to outnumber Europeans more than three to one, the proportion between Asian arrivals and residents steadily diminished. Although changing rapidly from rural peasants to urban businessmen, the Asians clung to their communal religions throughout their long residence in East Africa. The Asians' ability to adjust and take advantage of the economic opportunities resulted in a monetary accumulation that enabled a high degree of philanthropy.
