South Africa in Crisis

South Africa in Crisis, published in 1987, examines the perceptions and policies of major interest groups in South Africa during the 1980s, analyzing their responses to the state of ferment and political and economic decline. It highlights the relationship between internal reactions and external pressures, particularly from abroad, in the country's anti-apartheid struggle.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

South Africa in Crisis, originally published in 1987, is a comprehensive exploration of the perceptions and policies of all the major interest groups in South Africa during the pivotal 1980s. This pivotal period marked a significant turning point in the long-running struggle for ultimate political power in the country. The book delves into the responses of these groups to the state of ferment and the vicious circle of political and economic decline that emerged as a result of the anti-apartheid struggle. It also examines the growing pressures from within and outside South Africa, highlighting the interplay between internal reactions to the crisis and the diverse and unprecedented set of political, military, and economic forces imposed from abroad.

The book's central theme revolves around the complex relationship between internal dynamics and the external pressures exerted on South Africa during this critical period. It sheds light on the various strategies employed by different interest groups to navigate the challenges posed by the crisis, as well as the impact of these strategies on the country's political, economic, and social landscape.

One of the key aspects of South Africa in Crisis is its analysis of the responses of the ruling National Party (NP) to the crisis. The NP, which had been in power since the country's independence in 1910, faced mounting pressure from both internal and external forces. The book explores the party's attempts to maintain its grip on power, including its use of coercion, repression, and economic policies to suppress dissent and maintain social order.

At the same time, South Africa in Crisis also examines the growing opposition to the NP's policies, both within South Africa and abroad. The book highlights the role played by various opposition groups, such as the African National Congress (ANC) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), in challenging the NP's dominance and advocating for a more democratic and inclusive South Africa.

The book also delves into the economic implications of the crisis, particularly the impact of the international sanctions imposed on South Africa by the United Nations and other Western countries. The sanctions were designed to pressure the NP to dismantle apartheid and promote racial equality, but they also had a devastating impact on the country's economy, leading to widespread unemployment, poverty, and inequality.

South Africa in Crisis is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex history and politics of South Africa. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the perceptions and policies of all the major interest groups in South Africa during the 1980s, and it sheds light on the factors that contributed to the country's transition from apartheid to a more democratic and inclusive society.

In conclusion, South Africa in Crisis is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the perceptions and policies of all the major interest groups in South Africa during the 1980s. It sheds light on the complex relationship between internal dynamics and external pressures, and it offers valuable insights into the country's transition from apartheid to a more democratic and inclusive society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history and politics of South Africa.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032323572