Thabo Mbeki
A Complex Legacy of South Africa's Former President
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Ohio University Press
Published:15th May '17
Should be back in stock very soon
This biography offers a detailed examination of Thabo Mbeki's complex legacy, highlighting his contradictions and significant contributions to African politics.
In this insightful biography, Thabo Mbeki by Adekeye Adebajo explores the complexities of the former South African president's life and legacy. Mbeki is presented as a multifaceted individual, whose journey began as a dedicated young Marxist. During his presidency, however, he adopted conservative economic policies that often prioritized white corporate interests, highlighting the contradictions that defined his leadership. Adebajo delves into Mbeki's character, portraying him as a rational thinker who, despite his intellect, was sensitive to criticism and dissent. This duality adds depth to his political persona, making him a compelling subject for study.
The biography also addresses Mbeki's significant role in the African National Congress (ANC) and the anti-apartheid movement, showcasing his contributions as a liberation leader in exile. His efforts were pivotal in establishing one of the most respected constitutional democracies in the world. Yet, his presidency was marred by challenges, including his controversial AIDS policies, which have cast a shadow over his achievements. Adebajo balances Mbeki's successes with his failures, providing a nuanced perspective on his time in office.
Ultimately, Thabo Mbeki situates the former president within a broader pan-African context, recognizing him as a key political figure of his generation. Adebajo emphasizes Mbeki's foreign policy initiatives and his role in fostering continental institutions, particularly the African Union, thereby ensuring that his legacy is understood in its entirety.
“The author’s readable style summarizes the contours of Mbeki’s life from his childhood with activist parents to student defiance of apartheid, then exile to Britain and across Africa, where Oliver Tambo groomed him for leadership…. The book succeeds as a balanced, easy-to-read, yet insightful biography. Like other titles in the “Ohio Short Histories of Africa” series, students will benefit from the book’s succinctness … Summing Up: Recommended.” * CHOICE *
“The book meticulously captures the thoughts, personality and idiosyncrasies of a man whose legacy in South Africa and abroad is mixed.…Departing from other biographies of Mbeki, the book offers a careful analytical balance between Mbeki’s domestic policy and foreign policy.…At a time [when] the African continent is toying with the idea of new Pan-Africanism – imbued with Mbeki’s idea of African renaissance, the book can offer an important historical context to the same.” * Africa@LSE *
ISBN: 9780821422748
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
190 pages