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1940s East Africa - betel nut seller, Mombasa, Kenya
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1940s East Africa - betel nut seller, Mombasa, Kenya
1940s East Africa - betel nut seller, Mombasa, Kenya
Photograph by a British army recruitment officer stationed in East Africa and the Middle East during World War II
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23436822
Occupation Skill Tribal World War Ii World War Two
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the scene of a betel nut seller in Mombasa, Kenya during the 1940s. The image was taken by a British army recruitment officer stationed in East Africa and the Middle East during World War II, providing a unique and personal glimpse into the daily life of this vibrant and diverse region. The seller, a local man dressed in traditional clothing, sits on a low stool with a large bowl of betel nuts in front of him. The nuts, encased in bright red betel leaves, are a popular chew among the people of East Africa and have been a part of the region's culture for centuries. The seller's expression is focused and determined, as he skillfully selects and wraps the nuts for his customers. The photograph offers a window into the rich tapestry of East African culture during a time when the region was deeply influenced by European colonialism. The British Empire had a significant impact on the region, bringing new industries, technologies, and ideas, while also disrupting traditional ways of life. The betel nut trade, however, remained an important part of the local economy and continued to thrive. The image also serves as a reminder of the human stories that lie behind the larger historical narrative of World War II. The soldier who took this photograph was likely far from home, experiencing a world vastly different from his own. Yet, in this moment, he was able to connect with a local man over a shared human experience - the exchange of goods and services. This vintage photograph is a testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling and the ability of a single image to transport us back in time and offer a glimpse into the past.
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