Military History of Modern South Africa

South Africa experienced significant socio-economic and political change in the 20th century, including two world wars, Korea, uprisings, and industrial unrest. This book is the first study of the South African armed forces as an institution and the complex roles they played in these conflicts, focusing on defense policy, development, and the people who served in and commanded them. It also places the narrative within the broader national past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 420 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2018
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

South Africa experienced a remarkable period of socio-economic and political transformation during the 20th century, marked by continuous and often rapid changes. The century commenced with a brief but intense war, followed by the consolidation of the conquered Boer republics, the Cape, and Natal colonies into the Union of South Africa less than ten years later. Throughout the century, the Union Defence Force (UDF) played a significant role in various conflicts, including the two world wars, the Korean War, uprisings and rebellions by Afrikaner and black nationalists, and industrial unrest.

The Cold War, which engulfed the subcontinent and lasted for over thirty years, reached a pivotal point at the end of the century. This period witnessed the withdrawal of foreign troops from southern Africa, the withdrawal of South African forces from Angola and Namibia, and the transfer of political power away from a white elite to a broad-based democracy.

This book is the first comprehensive study of the South African armed forces as an institution and the diverse roles they played in the wars, rebellions, uprisings, and protests of the period. It delves into the evolution of South African defense policy, the development of the armed forces, and the individuals who served in and commanded them. By contextualizing the narrative within the broader national past, the book offers a fascinating exploration of a century filled with significant events and notable personalities, where South Africa was uniquely involved in three total wars.

Weight: 720g
Dimension: 230 x 160 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781612005829