A Short History of South Africa

Originally published in 1973, this book begins with the arrival of the Europeans in South Africa. It examines the part played by the Dutch, British and Afrikaners, as well the diverse ethnic groups including the Xhosa and Zulus. The complicated period of the Difiqane or 'Forced Migrations' is clearly discussed as is the genesis and evolution of Apartheid. Other major events which are discussed include the advent of the 1820 Settlers, the Great Trek, the discovery of diamonds, the Jameson Raid, the occupation of land which became Zimbabwe, the Anglo-Boer Wars and the two World Wars. Accounts are given of Sharpeville and the subsequent introduction of legislation formalising separate development.

John Selby

1. The Hollanders 2. The British: 1806-38 3. The Bushmen, Hottentots and Coloureds 4. The Bantu 5. The Voortrekkers 6. The Boer Republics or Afrikaner States 7. Conflict in the East: The Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 8. The Discovery of Diamonds: The First Anglo-Boer War, 1881 9. Rhodesia Founded, and the South African Republic Surrounded 10. Doctor Jameson 11. The Uitlanders 12. The Second Anglo-Boer War, 1899-1902 13. Union 14. Botha, 1910-19 15. Smuts and Herzog 16. Apartheid 17. Conclusion: Place Names. Appendix A: Geography and People B: Pre-History C: The Afrikaans Language.