Donough McGillycuddy

South Africa Donough McGillycuddy

South Africa: Reflections on a Revolution is an articulately written, vibrant and comprehensive account for inquisitive minds all over the globe. It discusses the troubled history of this complex continent, highlights its eclectic mix of people and fascinating culture, and draws on the comparisons with its Central European Caucasian cousins. Seeing Africa through the eyes of the Irish author (who emigrated with his late wife to a stock farm in Southern Drakensberg in their 60s, and who has a fascinating hereditary link in global politics) brings a refreshing perspective to this complex subject. Having formed strong friendships with local Zulus and settled white South Africans, the author also unearthed a great interest in KwaZulu-Natal, and shares his experiences with passion and diplomacy. He discusses in detail the massacre (in cold blood) of 16 striking miners at Marikana, the follow-up assassination of fugitives (many shot in the back, by police) and the shiver this sent rippling around the world. He also shares details of the subsequent Commission of Inquiry, the weaknesses of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the scrupulous antics of those in the highest echelons of authority. But what also makes this book stand out amongst others is the author's finely detailed insights in South African history, that stretch far beyond what one would normally expect. The story of the Zulu people whose army wiped out the British forces in 1879 at Isandlwana, the recruitment of thousands of Irish soldiers, civil servants and nurses by the English for the two Anglo-Boer wars, the fascinating take on King Shaka and his military prowess, and Henry Fynn's heroic exploits are shared intelligibly, and with great energy and insight. This is a credible, well-researched book that offers a deep and rich understanding of this complex country and its thought-provoking history.