Of Tricksters, Tyrants and Turncoats

Of Tricksters, Tyrants and Turncoats spans more than three hundred years of South African history.
du Preez, Max
26100
978-1-77022-043-0
In stock
new
€22.00 *

Title: Of Tricksters, Tyrants and Turncoats
Author: Max du Preez
Imprint: Zebra Press
Uitgewer: Randomhouse Struik
Cape Town, South Africa 2008
ISBN 9781770220430 / ISBN 978-1-77022-043-0
Softcover, 15x23 cm, 248 pages

Description:

The sequel to the bestselling Of Warriors, Lovers and Prophets, this is a collection of more fascinating historical tales, all meticulously researched and written in a lively and engaging style. There are stories of Khoikhoi who tried to integrate into early Cape colonial society, and eccentric Europeans who ventured to the turbulent interior. Readers will meet the Xhosa mystic and war-doctor Makhanda, who nearly succeeded in taking Grahamstown from the British in 1819; and the chieftainess Mantatisi, who led her people to military victories during the upheavals of the nineteenth century.

Also featured are the Johannesburg-based Foster Gang, who were indirectly responsible for the killing of Boer hero Koos de la Rey; and the men who pulled off the biggest jewellery heist of the time, stealing Bridget Oppenheimer’s jewels in 1956. Of Tricksters, Tyrants and Turncoats spans more than three hundred years of history, concluding with an account of the man who exposed South Africa’s controversial arms deal. Once again, Max du Preez brings the past to life, proving that history can be more interesting – and more fun – than fiction.