An analysis of the Rhodesian referendum, 1922

Abstract

A journal article analyzing the Rhodesian referendum of 1922. ; The success of the Resposible Government Association in the referendum of October 1922, in which the electorate supported Responsible Government in preference to Union with South Africa, is clearly a significant turning- point in Southern Rhodesian history. There has been little analysis, however, of how and why this result came about,' and the vote for Responsible Government has simply been attributed to the natural outcome of 'British instincts' and Imperial sentiment. These factors undoubtedly contributed to some extent, but were not the prime causes underlying the settlers' decision.