From Dutch South Africa To Republic Of South Africa 1652 1994 The Story Of Three And A Half Centuries Of Imperialism

Colonisation of South Africa began on April 8, 1652 when a force of 90 men under the command of Von Riebeeck of the Dutch East India Company occupied the Cape. The Dutch rule lasted for a little less than 150 years. The British army took over when it defeated the Dutch forces in Europe in 1795 and remained till 1993. This book is a modest attempt to capture the economic and social history of this region spanning this period of White domination. The book is divided in five parts. Part I discusses in detail the Dutch and the early rule in South Africa. The main socio-economic event of the Dutch Colonisation was the introduction of slavery in March 1658. Interestingly, the slaves out¬numbered white colonist for nearly 100 years resulting in a dominant and overwhelmingly large proportion of the colony's output being contributed by the slaves. Part II and III cover the early British rule of 1806-1902. It also covers the Great Boer Trek of 1834-1850 and four Imperialist wars, two each against the Zulu's and the Boers including the second Boer War of 1899-1902. This part also covers the evolution and growth of capitalism in South Africa in agriculture, mining and manufacturing industry. Part IV describes the destabilisation of Southern African states by Apartheid South Africa. Part V finally discusses the dependence syndrome in Southern Africa. There has been considerable worldwide interest on the subject of independence of South Africa and the role of its architect Mr. Nelson Mandela. There is unanimity that he has empowered the local people and there is a democratic government in place giving due recognition to the majority of population. South Africa has over the last two decades emerged as a regional Power and has the potential to help neighbouring states in their economic and political development.