Jonas Savimbi: A Key to Africa – Fred Bridgland

An important and highly readable account of one of Africa’s most controversial political and military leaders, Jonas Savimbi: A Key to Africa by acclaimed journalist Fred Bridgland examines the life, ideology and military campaigns of the UNITA leader during the Angolan Civil War. First published in 1986 and issued here as the 1988 Coronet paperback edition, this work remains an essential reference for readers interested in modern African history, Cold War politics, revolutionary movements, Southern African conflicts and Angola’s struggle for independence.

Drawing on extensive research and first-hand reporting, Jonas Savimbi: A Key to Africa explores Savimbi’s rise to prominence, his relationship with Maoist ideology, the Portuguese colonial period, the conflict between UNITA and the MPLA, and the involvement of South Africa, Cuba, the Soviet Union and the United States in one of Africa’s defining Cold War battlegrounds. The book provides valuable historical context for understanding the geopolitical complexities of Southern Africa during the latter half of the twentieth century.

This edition is increasingly sought after by collectors of Africana, Rhodesiana, military history and political biographies, as well as students and researchers examining liberation movements and Cold War intervention in Africa. Jonas Savimbi: A Key to Africa remains one of the best-known biographies of Jonas Savimbi and offers a detailed contemporary perspective on events that shaped Angola and the wider region.

Condition – Good

Covers exhibit moderate shelf wear with light rubbing/scuffing to the laminated surfaces, edge wear, and reading creases to the spine. The text block is age-toned with foxing/discolouration to the top edge. Binding is sound and the contents are clean and complete