The ANC and Its Leaders edited by Willie Esterhuyse & Philip Nel

The ANC and Its Leaders is an important South African political history title published during one of the most transformative periods in the country’s modern history. Edited by Willie Esterhuyse and Philip Nel and published by Tafelberg in 1990, this work offers contemporary analysis of the African National Congress shortly after the unbanning of political organisations in South Africa and during the early negotiation period that would ultimately lead to democratic transition.

Written by respected academics from the University of Stellenbosch, the book explores the ANC’s structure, ideology, leadership, international standing, economic viewpoints, and role in negotiations with the South African government under President F.W. de Klerk. Of particular historical importance is the fact that The ANC and Its Leaders was produced at a pivotal moment when the ANC was emerging from decades of prohibition and exile into mainstream South African political life.

The ANC and Its Leaders provides valuable insight into how political analysts and academics of the period viewed the ANC, Nelson Mandela, and the prospects for a negotiated settlement in South Africa. Today it serves not only as a political study but also as a fascinating historical document capturing the uncertainty, optimism, and debate surrounding South Africa’s transition era.

This title will appeal strongly to collectors of Africana, South African political history, anti-apartheid material, ANC history, Nelson Mandela studies, and transition-era publications. It is also highly suitable for researchers, historians, and university collections focusing on Southern African politics and twentieth-century African history.

Published by Tafelberg, first edition, first impression, 1990.

Condition – Near Fine 

Paperback in near fine condition. Clean and well-preserved copy with light general shelf wear only. Internally clean and tightly bound with no major defects noted.