E. A. Ritter (1890–1969)

A fascinating book about a fascinating man and culture. I was left with the feeling that, had Shaka been living in, say, Europe and been white he would have been heaped with long lasting praise as an innovator, master tactician, talented General and empire builder - he would be spoken of in the same terms as Napoleon or Alexander The Great or the armies of Rome. However, he lived in Africa and was black and, except for a select few, no one outside of Africa knew of his amazing achievements, his innovations in battle, his moulding of a disparate group of tribes into one Zulu nation - and not always through force either. Yes he could be brutal, but no more than many kings and emperors in Europe at the time. But he also showed great care for his people, and in particular his warriors. Nevertheless he would be considered a savage by the 'civilised' interlopers in his country.

The end, even though I knew what was coming from other sources I had read, was still very sad and moving to read because, during this lengthy book, I had grown to admire this man and even to like him, at least in certain of his moods. I might not have always agreed with his actions but this was, of course, a different time and a different culture and I am not in a position to judge.

Before this book I knew something of the times following Shaka's reign, of what became of the Zulu nation, but this explained so much - how the Zulu army became so disciplined, so feared in battle, why Shaka's name was still spoken in awe so long after his death, and why the Zulu nation was as impressive as it was. So sad we (the English) were responsible for its ultimate demise. A great loss to Africa and the world.

If you're interested in the history of the Zulus, or just want to read the fascinating life story of a fascinating man, this book is well worth your time. Highly recommended.
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Originally written in 1955, I find this an excellent biography. Shaka began from a very low status position among his people and re-organized them into a very respectable, bronze or early Iron age state. For one man it was a tremendous achievement over a twenty year period. I believe this to be an example that could be studied by many archaeologists as an example of a short-lived state which did not survive for more than a few generations. Logically there would probably been more examples from the European and Mediterranean areas. But this is a good and informative read.… (mehr)