The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa

The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is a revised and rewritten version of I. Schaperas ethnographic survey of Bantu-speaking tribes of South Africa, documenting physical characteristics, traditional cultures, and social, cultural, and economic changes since the arrival of the white man.

Format: Hardback
Length: 556 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1974, The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is a revised and rewritten version of I. Schaperas ethnographic survey of the Bantu-speaking tribes of South Africa. New South African contributors have recorded all known facts about the physical characteristics and traditional cultures of these peoples, as well as documenting the significant social, cultural, and economic changes that have occurred since the arrival of the white man. This book will be of interest to students of anthropology, sociology, African studies, and history.

The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is a comprehensive and detailed account of the diverse ethnic groups that inhabit the southernmost regions of Africa. Authored by I. Schaperas, a renowned anthropologist, the book was first published in 1974 and has since undergone a significant revision and rewriting process. The new edition, featuring contributions from prominent South African scholars, aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date portrayal of the Bantu-speaking communities.

The book begins with an introduction that provides a historical and cultural context for the study of the Bantu-speaking peoples. Schaperas explains the origins and spread of the Bantu peoples, their migration patterns, and the development of their distinct linguistic and cultural traditions. He also highlights the challenges and complexities that these communities have faced throughout history, including colonization, slavery, and apartheid.

The subsequent chapters delve into the physical characteristics, traditional cultures, and social structures of the various Bantu-speaking tribes. The authors provide detailed descriptions of the languages, customs, rituals, and beliefs of these groups, as well as their economic practices, social hierarchies, and political systems. They also explore the impact of colonialism and the subsequent struggles for independence and social justice on these communities.

One of the key strengths of The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is its extensive use of primary sources and ethnographic research. The authors have consulted a wide range of historical documents, oral traditions, and fieldwork conducted by previous scholars and researchers. This allows them to present a rich and nuanced account of the Bantu-speaking peoples, capturing their diverse experiences and perspectives.

Another notable feature of the book is its attention to the social, cultural, and economic changes that have occurred since the arrival of the white man in Southern Africa. The authors document the impact of colonialism on the Bantu-speaking communities, including the loss of land, forced labor, and the marginalization of certain ethnic groups. They also explore the challenges and opportunities that have emerged in the post-colonial era, including the development of new political systems, the promotion of cultural diversity, and the pursuit of economic development.

The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is an essential resource for students and scholars of anthropology, sociology, African studies, and history. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the Bantu-speaking communities, offering a wealth of information and insights into their physical characteristics, traditional cultures, and historical experiences. The book's use of primary sources and ethnographic research makes it an invaluable tool for those seeking to deepen their understanding of these complex and fascinating societies.

In conclusion, The Bantu-Speaking Peoples of Southern Africa is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and up-to-date portrayal of the Bantu-speaking communities of Southern Africa. Authored by a team of distinguished scholars and researchers, the book provides a rich and nuanced account of these communities' physical characteristics, traditional cultures, and historical experiences. Its extensive use of primary sources and ethnographic research makes it an invaluable resource for students and scholars of anthropology, sociology, African studies, and history. By shedding light on the challenges and complexities faced by these communities, the book contributes to our understanding of the diverse and complex tapestry of African societies.

Weight: 1220g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032699936