Revolution from Above, Rebellion from Below : The Agrarian Transvaal at the Turn of the Century

This study of rural life and struggle in the Transvaal illuminates our understanding of the South African War and its aftermath, and offers new insights into peasant societies during the colonial period.

This is a study of rural society and struggle in the Transvaal during the watershed period of the early twentieth century. Though much has been written about the South African War and `Reconstruction'' period, this is the first scholarly and comprehensive analysis of their impact on the agrarian Transvaal.Jeremy Krikler analyses the `Revolution from Above'' unleashed by British imperialism as it wrought changes of immense significance for the countryside. He explores the relationships between landowners and peasants, traces the struggle between them, and examines the agrarian changes attempted by the British after the war. It is an original, thoroughly researched, and lucidly written account, which illuminates our understanding of the South African War and its aftermath. It also offers new insights into peasant struggles, and into the nature of private property and the colonial state in the Transvaal.