The Mandela Brief
Sydney Kentridge and the Trials of Apartheid
Format:Hardback
Publisher:John Murray Press
Published:21st Jul '22
Should be back in stock very soon
This biography chronicles the life of Sir Sydney Kentridge QC, a key figure in South Africa's anti-apartheid movement, as detailed in The Mandela Brief.
In The Mandela Brief, readers are introduced to the remarkable life of Sir Sydney Kentridge QC, a barrister whose career has been marked by a steadfast commitment to justice. Kentridge's journey is deeply intertwined with South Africa's fight against apartheid, where he emerged as a leading advocate for human rights. His legal battles, including the Treason Trial of Nelson Mandela and the inquiries into the Sharpeville massacre and the death of Steve Biko, showcase his unwavering dedication to the principles of justice and equality. This biography captures the essence of Kentridge's character, highlighting his moral courage in the face of systemic oppression.
As the only advocate to represent three Nobel Peace Prize winners—Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Chief Albert Lutuli—Kentridge's influence extends beyond the courtroom. His work not only shaped the legal landscape of South Africa but also inspired a global audience to confront injustice. The narrative is rich with detail, providing insights into the legal strategies employed during some of the most significant trials of the 20th century. The author meticulously researches Kentridge's life, presenting a gripping account of his contributions to the anti-apartheid movement.
The Mandela Brief is not just a biography; it is a testament to the power of advocacy and the enduring impact of one individual’s fight against injustice. Through Kentridge's story, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own roles in the pursuit of justice and equality, making this a compelling read for anyone interested in legal history and human rights.
Well-written, deeply researched and wholly gripping -- The Spectator
Meticulously researched -- The Times
Kentridge is not only one of the finest advocates of all time, he is also one of the finest men -- Lady Hale
The barrister's barrister . . . a moral stature that no amount of moral forensic technique can impersonate -- Lord Jonathan Sumption
One of the greatest lawyers of our times - a legal titan -- Lady Helena Kennedy
A good read . . . well-researched. It can be recommended as a short introduction to the horrific nature of the ancien régime and the risks run and suffering borne by its opponents, as they emerge through the prism of the South African legal system -- Daily Telegraph
Anyone who wants a fresh understanding of how South Africa became the polecat of the international community will gain insight from Thomas Grant's gripping telling of the stellar career of Sydney Kentridge and his struggle for justice -- Rapport
In all of [Grant's] chapters, the role of fearless hugely skilled advocacy in creating a belief that the rule of law matters is luminously documented . . . Grant's description of Kentridge's cross-examination of State witnesses who were cynically employed to convict opponents of the apartheid regime should be compulsory reading -- The Daily Maverick
In November [2022], [Sydney] Kentridge will mark his 100th birthday, and Grant's in-depth research sets the scene for a celebration of a remarkable legal tactician -- Farmer's Weekly
Thomas Grant KC has performed a real service by enabling us to get a vivid sense of some of Kentridge's most important cases . . . This is a powerful, but easy, read -- New Law Journal
A forensic, riveting account of a wondrous and principled advocate -- Philippe Sands
ISBN: 9781529372861
Dimensions: 234mm x 156mm x 36mm
Weight: 580g
352 pages