A Family History
By Seán Morrow
The Bam family hailed from Goqwana, near Tsolo, in the Transkei region of South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The Bams of Grasslands Farm focuses on six siblings, their ancestors and particularly Fikile and Brigalia Bam. Notably, Fikile and Brigalia emerged as prominent public figures in their respective spheres.
Biographies focus on individuals rather than broad political, economic or social movements. At their best, they highlight the humanity of individuals whose unique experiences might otherwise be lost.
Integrity and self-assurance under apartheid
This book weaves together personal stories of the struggle for education, marriage and the pressures of separation and war. It explores women’s roles in a patriarchal and racist society and examines social class within African communities. Missionaries, churches and religion also feature prominently, alongside issues of land and authority in a native reserve turned homeland. Themes of liberation politics, humor, eccentricities, courage and failure are interwoven throughout the narrative.
In essence, The Bams of Grasslands Farm is the story of a family that survived and benefited from colonial conquest. They preserved their integrity and self-assurance despite the degradation of apartheid. They also confronted the challenges and opportunities of the post-1994 era. Ultimately, it is a story about a changing South Africa, vividly mirrored in the lives of the Bam family.
This highly readable book advances understanding of black social history under apartheid.
– Zanele Mbeki
About the author
Seán Morrow studied at Trinity College, Dublin and the University of Sussex. He has taught at schools and universities in Ireland, Zambia, Malawi, Lesotho and South Africa. His work spans the educational, religious, cultural and liberation history of central and southern Africa. Additionally, he is an independent historian and professional editor.
Seán co-authored Education in Exile: SOMAFCO, the African National Congress School in Tanzania, 1978 to 1992, published by HSRC Press in 2007. He also wrote The Fires Beneath: The Life of Monica Wilson, South African Anthropologist, published by Penguin in 2016. Moreover, he has contributed numerous articles to academic journals.
- PUBLISHER | Staging Post |
- ISBN | 978-1-991220-57-8 |
- Recommended Retail Price | R250.00 |
- Classification | History |
For more information | Janine Daniel | J Doubled Publicity | +27 (0)83 327 3393 | mail me |
