This chapter places these subaltern histories in a deeper historical framework, arguing that interracial histories are not transgressive as such, but must be understood within long-standing historical patterns of inter-group relations from the precolonial period.

This chapter focuses on a single story from a single document—an archival fragment found in the Malawi National Archives. The story richly details a relationship between an unnamed white man and an African woman named Adaima. It offers unparalleled evidence on the nature of interracial relationships.

This chapter addresses children born of interracial relationships and their struggle for support from fathers who are often white. In particular it examines letter writing by children—epistolary attempts at gaining attention and support. It argues for the agency of these children and how identity formation started at an early age.