This volume investigates the historical development and implementation of racial segregation and apartheid policies in twentieth-century South Africa. William Beinart and Saul Dubow, both distinguished historians of Southern Africa, curate a collection of foundational essays to examine the structural and ideological underpinnings of the South African state. The text provides a framework for understanding how these policies evolved through shifting political landscapes, culminating in the transition to democracy following the 1994 election.

Experts and educators frequently cite this volume as a foundational resource for students and researchers entering the field of South African history. The inclusion of editorial summaries and contextual notes makes the dense academic material significantly more accessible for a general audience.