Richard Steyn Boeken

The decision by Parliament to enter World War II in 1939 triggered significant social and political changes in South Africa. The war prompted mass migration of black individuals to urban areas for employment, while volunteers from diverse backgrounds enlisted to fight. Opposition to the Smuts government intensified, with acts of sabotage undermining the war effort. This period saw a breakdown of white unity and ignited discussions among nationalists, socialists, liberals, and communists, reshaping the nation's political landscape and galvanizing resistance to segregation.

The biography offers an insightful exploration of Lord Alfred Milner, an influential figure in British imperial history and a key player during the First World War. It delves into his complex legacy, highlighting his role in the Boer War and the unification of South Africa, alongside the resentment he stirred among Afrikaners. The author, Richard Steyn, argues that Milner's contributions extend beyond his controversial tenure in South Africa, emphasizing his significant impact within the broader context of global conflict and governance.

From the acclaimed biographer of Jan Smuts, a revealing new account of Empire- builder and First World War Cabinet minister Lord Alfred Milner.