economic history
Builders vs burglars: who will win in South Africa?
A new book shows how taking a long view of economic history casts South Africa’s current travails in a more optimistic light, and reveals the importance of embracing technical innovation and expanding economic freedom as a route to prosperity
If you are intrigued as to what makes a perfect soldier, or why Indian brides have a dowry but African grooms pay lobola, or why the Transkei was once the world’s biggest producer of chopsticks, then economic history could be your thing.
One book, in particular, has been making waves: Our Long Walk to Economic Freedom, by Stellenbosch University economics professor Johan Fourie. He put it together during the lockdown, when he transcribed 34 of his lectures for students and realised he was holding a book that provided a uniquely South African perspective on the top research finds in economic history over the past decade...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.