Historical Dictionary of Namibia

On March 21, 1990, Sam Nujoma was sworn in as the first president of independent Namibia. This ceremony marked the end of a struggle that lasted more than two decades and a period of colonialism that lasted more than a century. Finally, after decades long wars over grazing in the 19th century, genocidal colonial suppression by Germany at the beginning of the 20th century, repressive apartheid racialism throughout the 20th century, and a prolonged armed liberation struggle, Namibians had the chance to choose their own leaders, develop a democratic political process in a free society, and to bring economic development and greater equity to their country.The Historical Dictionary of Namibia covers the history of Namibia through a chronology, an introductory essay, appendixes, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has several hundred cross-referenced entries on important personalities, politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture. This book is an excellent access point for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Namibia.

Tonchi (political and administrative studies, Univ. of Namibia), William A. Lindeke (formerly political studies, Univ. of Namibia), and John J. Grotpeter (formerly political science, St. Louis Coll. of Pharmacy) offer this timely update to Grotpeter’s 1992 edition. It covers the country’s early history, from its settlement in 2500 BC through its 1990 declaration of independence and forward. Now one of the most economically successful countries of the sub-Saharan region, Namibia’s fascinating history includes overcoming colonialism and apartheid, and is explained in both the chronology and introduction. Several hundred cross-referenced entries on notable events, personalities, and points of culture and religion account for the body of this well-rounded work, and six appendixes enhance its quality as a ready-reference resource. VERDICT This is an outstanding title for those interested in Namibia., This book is recommended for libraries with an interest in African studies., Tonchi (Univ. of Namibia), Lindeke (formerly, Univ. of Massachusetts, Lowell), and the late Grotpeter, with their combined expertise, here aim to expand users' knowledge of Namibia. Namibia's story is rooted in the struggle for independence; overall, not much is known about the men and women whose contributions made this country a success. This second edition (1st ed., by Grotpeter, CH, Jun'95, 32-5411) traces the history of Namibia chronologically from prehistoric to colonial and postcolonial days, enabling students to follow both the struggle and recent events. The dictionary section is organized alphabetically and features several hundred cross-referenced entries that discuss important personalities, politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture, allowing for in-depth study of the various subjects. The introductory essay serves as a fitting guide to the entries. In addition, helpful appendixes provide a quick reference for some of the major events and key persons in Namibian history. The extensive bibliography, arranged by topic, offers researchers further reading suggestions. For students, scholars, and others wanting to know more about Namibia, this is an excellent gateway to valuable information sources. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through researchers/faculty; general readers., Historical Dictionary of Namibia particularly strong on historical and contemporary personalities, but also includes many other references which might not be expected, such as, for example, the Supreme Being of the Hereros, the largest known meteorite, the nation’s principal shopping mall, the mine which produces the world’s purest diamonds, and two particularly remarkable sand dunes.

Victor L. Tonchi is senior lecturer in Political and Administrative Studies and was Acting Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Management at the University of Namibia.William A. Lindeke retired as professor at the University of Massachusetts, Lowell and is former professor of Political Studies at the University of Namibia. John J. Grotpeter was professor of Political Science at the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, where he also held an endowed chair as the William S. and Edith C. Bucke Professor of Liberal Arts.