This paper will critically analyze the intersections and interactions between African labor, skills, tasks, building materials and methods in the construction of mining camps in Angola and the Belgian Congo during the 20th century. It argues that camps are a fruitful environment in which to explore multiple dimensions of cosmopolitanism within the colonial context. The construction processes and the influence of construction methods and training are examined. The paper concludes that workers played a pivotal role in shaping their dwellings and camps, and their involvement in construction resulted in cosmopolitan relations and spaces.

Funded by the European Union (ERC, ArchLabour, 1101096606).