South Africa 1906-1961: The Price of Magnanimity

This book provides a historical and political analysis of British and Commonwealth statesmen's relations with South Africa from 1961 to 1961, re-examining Liberal policy in restoring self-government and its consequences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 102 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1961, this comprehensive book delves into a detailed historical and political analysis of the complex yet enduring challenges British and Commonwealth statesmen faced in their relations with South Africa. Spanning from the restoration of self-government to the defeated Boer republics of 1907-7 and the inauguration of the Union on May 31, 1910, to the secession of the Republic of South Africa from the Commonwealth on May 31, 1961, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the intricate dynamics between these nations.

In its re-examination, the book utilizes newly available documentary evidence to shed light on the objectives behind the Liberal policy of restoring self-government to the Transvaal. It delves into the critical considerations that shaped this policy and the profound consequences it had in the broader context of history.

The book begins by providing a historical backdrop, tracing the events leading up to the restoration of self-government in the Transvaal. It explores the political and social context of the time, including the struggles for independence and the emergence of different political factions. This historical context sets the stage for the subsequent analysis of the Liberal policy and its impact on South Africa.

The book then delves into the Liberal policy itself, examining the aims and objectives behind it. It explores the various factors that influenced the decision-making process, including the desire for stability, the promotion of economic development, and the pursuit of racial equality. The authors analyze the strategies employed by the Liberal government to achieve these goals and the challenges they faced along the way.

One of the key aspects of the Liberal policy was the establishment of a representative government in the Transvaal. The authors discuss the process of constitutional negotiations and the compromises that were made to ensure the success of this endeavor. They examine the role played by key individuals and organizations, such as the Cape Colony and the British government, in shaping the final constitution.

The book also explores the broader consequences of the Liberal policy in South Africa. It examines the impact of self-government on the development of the Transvaal and the broader South African economy. It discusses the challenges faced by the new government in establishing a stable and prosperous nation, including the issue of land reform and the struggle against racial discrimination.

Furthermore, the book examines the role of the British government in South Africa throughout this period. It explores the changing attitudes towards colonialism and the emergence of a more liberal and progressive approach to governance. It discusses the challenges faced by the British government in maintaining stability and promoting economic development in a nation with a complex history and diverse population.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the complex and multifaceted history of British and Commonwealth relations with South Africa. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the Liberal policy and its impact on the development of the nation. Through its re-examination of historical evidence and its exploration of the broader political and social context, the book sheds light on the enduring challenges and complexities of this relationship.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032311838