Among South Africa’s opinionistas, RW Johnson (above) is peerless. His columns often take our minds to fresh places, challenging long-held preconceptions and helping us change through personal reflection. Johnson’s command of his homeland’s historical, political and economic realities gives him the perfect foundation for a big question of the moment – What If SA’s four provinces had NOT unionised in 1910.
The third and final instalment of his series addressing the question is now on Politicsweb – Dr James Myburgh’s superb website which is a platform for the full spectrum of political views and the only one where BizNews advertises.
In some senses, the series will embolden the views of those lobbying for Cape Independence. It will also remind us, however, that he who has the gold makes the rules. For the old SA it was the mineral rich, verkrampte Transvaal, whose imposed approach changed the path for the former colonies which had been moving towards racial integration.
___STEADY_PAYWALL___
As for the future, Johnson does not see Cape secession as a solution. That’s my only spoiler. Best you read the trilogy yourself. Click on the links below:
Our ‘July Days’ and their reckoning (I)
What if there had been no South Africa? (II)
South Africa: An alternative history (III)
More for you today (click on linked headline to access) –Â
* Loved my interview yesterday with British actor Martin Clunes and believe you’ll be equally charmed by this relaxed, engaging part-time farmer from Dorset best known for the iconic Doc Martin series.
* Microsoft executives told Bill Gates to stop emailing a female staffer years ago. WSJ news exclusive exposes how the group’s top lawyer and HR chief informed Microsoft directors then married billionaire’s emails with a female employee were inappropriate.
*Â Â China’s Xi flexes power with plan to rewrite Communist Party history. Historical revolution would put leader on par with Mao and Deng, signalling strength despite economic, diplomatic challenges.
*Â PSÂ Make a note to diarise next Tuesday (Oct 26) at noon for the monthly update webinar on the BizNews portfolio. Only for BizNews Premium members. Click here to register:Â https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/3785234117773097230
NB FOR YOUR WALL STREET JOURNAL ACCESS…
As a Premium subscriber you are entitled to full membership of wsj.com (normal price $29 a month). Be sure to action your access through the Premium link on the BizNews website. Because of The Wall Street Journal’s credential requirements, be sure to create a password which has at least 8 characters and includes at least one letter and one number – NB it MAY NOT contain any special characters (ie #, !, @ etc). To maintain access to WSJ.com, you MUST enter our partner’s website via BizNews Premium at least once a month. A final PS, if you had previously signed up for WSJ you’ll need to clear the cookies from your device. Our help desk can assist – [email protected].
