A survey of the whole of South African history from pre-colonial times to 1999, suitable for serious students of the subject. It handles all major topics, with special focus on the dramatic changes that have occured since 1990.

Davenport describes the changes that took place leading to the end of apartheid, the process of reconciliation among the various elements of South African society, and discusses the country's peace-making and constitution-building efforts.

Traces the origins of the black 'locations' to the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and shows how establishment of these segregated residential areas was sanctioned by law.

Professor Davenport examines reconcilliation amongst the various elements of South African society since 1990, and explains how problems that might have undermined peacemaking efforts were overcome.