Southern Rhodesia's relationship with South Africa, 1923-1953

[摘要] English: This thesis is a historical examination of Southern Rhodesia-South Africa relations from 1923 to 1953. Although some historians have paid attention to this 'special relationship, this thesis argues that the relationship is far more intricate and complex than the existing historiography allows for. In particular, it highlights the complexity of the ties between the two countries by studying the political relations, economic links and social and cultural ties between the two. By 1923, Southern Rhodesia had attained responsible government, in the process rejecting union with South Africa. Multiple factors contributed to this development, most notably anti-Afrikaner sentiments. It is this antagonistic, ambiguous relationship that this thesis significantly details and analyses. The thesis is organised chronologically, and discusses the multi-faceted nature of relations between Southern Rhodesia and South Africa. As is argued, economic ties (in particular customs and trade agreements) were the cornerstone of relations. Economic ties were fluid; they were characterised by close ties as well as friction between the two countries. Changes in the nature of economic relations influenced other aspects of Southern Rhodesia-South Africa relations. In addition, this thesis pays close attention to relations during the Second World War, whilst also examining social and cultural ties such as the role of sport and migration. Archival sources in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Britain were used for this thesis. These sources were supplemented by South African and Zimbabwean newspapers and periodicals. Situated within the broader framework of Southern African history, the thesis provides a lens through which to study the economic, political and social forces that characterised the colonial period in the region. The thesis also contributes to area studies �?it shows that, by studying Southern Rhodesia-South Africa relations, it becomes evident that countries and settler societies bound by geographical contiguity are not monolithic and do not necessarily maintain harmonious relations. The importance of the thesis from an imperial perspective is that it interweaves economic, political and social developments to provide a multifaceted analysis of British relations with Southern Africa.

[发布机构] University of the Free State