A History

Prior to modern western history of South Africa we know of the kingdom of Manupungubwe (1075-1220). This state developed some of the land for use of agriculture to feed its increasing population. The kingdom of Manupungubwe derives it’s name from their capital city, the location of which is now one of South Africa’s National Parks. These people were initially drawn to this region due to the large population of elephants, more important than the elephants were their ivory tusks which were of significant value and retain a lot of their value even to this day. As this nation-state grew in size and power it moved northwards and became known as the Kingdom of Zimbabwe around the 13th century. Some of whose stone buildings are still around to this present day.

European’s involvement in the history of South Africa begins in 1503 when Antonio de Salanha landed at Table Bay which would later become known as Cape Good. 150 years later, the first Dutch settlers came to Cape Good and formed a port to replenish ships that were travelling from Asia to Europe. The Dutch East India Company governed Cape Good until 1795. Other European powers realized the significance of having control over Cape Good. 200 of the French Huguenots came to South Africa and settled the town of Fransch Hoek. In 1795 British soldiers seized Cape Good fearing a Rebellion incited by French inhabitants. While the control of the British Empire the war against the native Xhosa people was expanded, and more territory was claimed for the use of Great Britain. When England abolished slavery in it’s colonies in 1833, 12,000 of the native population (Boers) who had been previously held under British control left Cape Good and formed the Boer-Republic. Gold and Diamonds were found in 1867 which triggered even more Europeans to move into South Africa, and furthered the subjugation of native Africans . The first Boer War lasted from 1880-81 and was a victory for the Boer-Republic largely due to their guerilla-style warfare tactics. However in the Second Boer War (1899-1902), England returned with a stronger army and defeated the Boer Republic -- afterwards, creating the Union of South Africa as a dominion under British rule.

In 1948 the National Party was elected, this government distinguished races in their laws and granted privileges to the population based on their skin color. This system came to be known as apartheid. In recent years certain organizations have been trying to undo the disadvantages that the native population has been subjected to. However progress has been mitigated due to economic difficulties, as well as the AIDS pandemic.


Submitted By David Picou