In 1994 Nelson Mandela entered government on the crest of widespread popularity and unprecedented political optimism. Yet over the course of Mandela's five-year term of office, the initial euphoria was gradually faded, replaced by a sanguine, grimmer realism.Visions of the New South Africa examines the ANC's first term in office, comparing its initial promises with its accomplishments. Hurray charts the demise of the state-sponsored Reconstruction and Development Programme -- the cornerstone of a left-oriented strategy of popular empowerment.
Focusing on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings offers Murray a unique opportunity to explore in microcosm the politics of memory, particularly the complex linkages between forgiveness and forgetfulness, and the power of the remembered past to shape the imagined future. He also looks at popular music, literature, sports and leisure, and museums and exhibitions, pointing to their important symbolic contribution to the definition of what it means to be a South African today.
- ISBN10 1859847080
- ISBN13 9781859847084
- Publish Date 1 March 2001
- Publish Status Cancelled
- Out of Print 11 June 2002
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Verso Books
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 256
- Language English