Originally published in 1961 this book provides a brief historical and political analysis of the very complex but little changing problems which have confronted British and Commonwealth statesmen in their relations with South Africa from the time of the restoration of self-government to the defeated Boer republics of 1907-7 and the inauguration of the Union on May 31, 1910 to the secession of the Republic of South Africa from the Commonwealth on May 31, 1961. The book re-examines, in the light of documentary evidence which became available prior to publication, the aims of Liberal policy in restoring self-government to the Transvaal, the considerations which determined it and the more important consequences that flowed from it in the broader perspective of history.
Biography
Tipperary born historian Nicholas Mansergh (1910 – 1991) wrote extensively on the process of decolonisation, the prelude to it, and its aftermath. Well known works include The Irish Question 1840-1921, and The Commonwealth Experience. In 1953, he became Smuts Professor of Commonwealth History in Cambridge, and was Master of St. John’s College from 1969 to 1979. He was also editor in chief of the 12 volume record of official documents on India: the Transfer of Power 1942-47.
‘Professor Mansergh writes objectively, fairly and in an impeccably scholarly fashion about issues which all too often become shrouded in emotionalism…throughout the work retains its academically sound approach.’ Harm Jan de Blij, American Political Science Review 56 (4)
‘Professor Mansergh writes in a manner which shows his deep knowledge…and complete impartiality.’ K.S.H, Pakistan Horizon, Vol 15, No. 2
