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Loading... Shaka Zulu: The Biography of the Founder of the Zulu Nation (original 1955; edition 1985)by E. A. Ritter
Work InformationShaka Zulu: The Biography of the Founder of the Zulu Nation by E. A. Ritter (1955)
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Sign up for LibraryThing to find out whether you'll like this book. No current Talk conversations about this book. Originally written in 1955, I find this an excellent biography. Shaka began from a very low status position among his people and re-organized them into a very respectable, bronze or early Iron age state. For one man it was a tremendous achievement over a twenty year period. I believe this to be an example that could be studied by many archaeologists as an example of a short-lived state which did not survive for more than a few generations. Logically there would probably been more examples from the European and Mediterranean areas. But this is a good and informative read. no reviews | add a review
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Google Books — Loading... GenresMelvil Decimal System (DDC)968.40924History and Geography Africa South Africa and southern Africa KwaZulu-NatalLC ClassificationRatingAverage:
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The end, even though I knew what was coming from other sources I had read, was still very sad and moving to read because, during this lengthy book, I had grown to admire this man and even to like him, at least in certain of his moods. I might not have always agreed with his actions but this was, of course, a different time and a different culture and I am not in a position to judge.
Before this book I knew something of the times following Shaka's reign, of what became of the Zulu nation, but this explained so much - how the Zulu army became so disciplined, so feared in battle, why Shaka's name was still spoken in awe so long after his death, and why the Zulu nation was as impressive as it was. So sad we (the English) were responsible for its ultimate demise. A great loss to Africa and the world.
If you're interested in the history of the Zulus, or just want to read the fascinating life story of a fascinating man, this book is well worth your time. Highly recommended.
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