Book Description
A scholarly and engaging study, this history of Swaziland, by an author who spent many years in the kingdom, presents a vivid account of the interplay of politics and personalities along the passage to post-colonial independence. From the early stages of Swazi occupation of the present-day kingdom to the accession of Sobhuza II as king in 1921, this book traces problems in consolidating leadership under the Dlamini chieftaincy and examines the infuence of Boer and British settlers, and of mining and commercial interests, on Swazi culture and governance. It recounts the story of a thriving small nation that sought to maintain traditional customs and institutions in the face of a powerful European presence.
About the Author
D. HUGH GILLIS has had a varied career in education, communications, Third World development, and the military.
The Kingdom of Swaziland: Studies in Political History, Vol. 37 FROM THE PUBLISHER
A scholarly and engaging study, this history of Swaziland, by an author who spent many years in the kingdom, presents a vivid account of the interplay of politics and personalities along the passage to post-colonial independence. From the early stages of Swazi occupation of the present-day kingdom to the accession of Sobhuza II as king in 1921, this book traces problems in consolidating leadership under the Dlamini chieftaincy and examines the infuence of Boer and British settlers, and of mining and commercial interests, on Swazi culture and governance. It recounts the story of a thriving small nation that sought to maintain traditional customs and institutions in the face of a powerful European presence.
SYNOPSIS
A scholarly and engaging study, this history of Swaziland, by an author who spent many years in the kingdom, presents a vivid account of the interplay of politics and personalities along the passage to post-colonial independence.
FROM THE CRITICS
Booknews
Examines aspects of the political history of Swaziland (the last of Britain's territorial possessions in Africa to be granted independence) from the 16th century up to 1921 when the late Sobhuza II assumed the kingship. The work is derived almost exclusively from a reading of official documents and other accounts as well as the resources of the Public Record Office in London and the Swaziland National Archives. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknew.com)
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