This book critically examines South Africa's past, from the Early Iron Age to the eve of the mineral revolution, in the context of its achievement of majority rule. It is written by ten leading historians, who present new data, interpretations, and perspectives on South African history. The work incorporates novel sources, methods, and concepts, including new information on interactions between Africans and colonial settlers, and a re-evaluation of identity and consciousness. This comprehensive reassessment of major historical events, developments, and records aims to serve as a vital resource for scholars of African history.

This book is presented as an important reassessment of South African history, incorporating new data and perspectives from leading historians. The publisher's description highlights its objective and clear manner of presenting the country's past, from ancient times to the cusp of the mineral revolution. It emphasizes the use of novel sources and methodologies to re-examine key aspects of identity and historical interactions. The work is positioned as a significant new tool for students and professors of African history.