Why did the kikuyu not view british as a threat?

It's inaccurate to say that the Kikuyu people did not view the British as a threat. The arrival of the British in Kenya, like many colonial encounters, was marked by conflict and tension. Here's why:

* Land Seizure: The British, seeking land for agriculture and settlement, encroached on Kikuyu land, leading to displacement and resentment. This was a major source of conflict, culminating in the Mau Mau Uprising, a rebellion that lasted from 1952-1960.

* Forced Labor: The British imposed forced labor on the Kikuyu, requiring them to work on European farms and infrastructure projects. This exploitation fueled resentment and resistance.

* Cultural Suppression: The British sought to suppress Kikuyu culture and traditions, promoting Christianity and Western education. This cultural imposition contributed to the feeling of being threatened and alienated.

* Political Disenfranchisement: The Kikuyu were largely excluded from political power, leaving them with limited representation and control over their own affairs.

While some Kikuyu might have initially welcomed the British for their perceived technological advancements, the negative consequences of British rule soon became evident. The Kikuyu, like many indigenous populations under colonial rule, experienced significant hardship and oppression at the hands of the British.

Therefore, it's crucial to avoid oversimplifying the relationship between the Kikuyu and the British. The Kikuyu, far from viewing the British as harmless, faced very real threats to their land, livelihood, culture, and autonomy.