Description

Book Synopsis
Since the early nineteenth century, the things which Black South Africans have had in their homes have changed completely. They have adopted things like tables, chairs, knives, forks, spoons, plates, cups and saucers, iron pots, beds, blankets, European clothing, and later electronic apparatus. Thus they claimed modernity, respectability and political inclusion. This book is the first systematic analysis of this development. It argues that the desire to possess such goods formed a major part of the drive behind the anti-apartheid struggle, and that the demand to consume has significantly influenced both the economy and the politics of the country.

Things Change: Black Material Culture and the Development of a Consumer Society in South Africa, 1800-2020

    Product form

    £53.60

    Includes FREE delivery

    Order before 4pm today for delivery by Thu 6 Aug 2026.

    A Paperback by Robert Ross

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of Things Change: Black Material Culture and the Development of a Consumer Society in South Africa, 1800-2020 by Robert Ross

      Publisher: Brill
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 04/05/2023
      ISBN13: 9789004543744, 978-9004543744
      ISBN10:
      Also in:
      African history Consumerism Material culture

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      Since the early nineteenth century, the things which Black South Africans have had in their homes have changed completely. They have adopted things like tables, chairs, knives, forks, spoons, plates, cups and saucers, iron pots, beds, blankets, European clothing, and later electronic apparatus. Thus they claimed modernity, respectability and political inclusion. This book is the first systematic analysis of this development. It argues that the desire to possess such goods formed a major part of the drive behind the anti-apartheid struggle, and that the demand to consume has significantly influenced both the economy and the politics of the country.

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account