Victor L. Tonchi is senior lecturer in Political and Administrative
Studies and was Acting Dean of the Faculty of Economics and
Management at the University of Namibia.
William A. Lindeke retired as professor at the University of
Massachusetts, Lowell and is former professor of Political Studies
at the University of Namibia.
John J. Grotpeter was professor of Political Science at the St.
Louis College of Pharmacy, where he also held an endowed chair as
the William S. and Edith C. Bucke Professor of Liberal Arts.
Tonchi (political and administrative studies, Univ. of Namibia),
William A. Lindeke (formerly political studies, Univ. of Namibia),
and John J. Grotpeter (formerly political science, St. Louis Coll.
of Pharmacy) offer this timely update to Grotpeter’s 1992 edition.
It covers the country’s early history, from its settlement in 2500
BC through its 1990 declaration of independence and forward. Now
one of the most economically successful countries of the
sub-Saharan region, Namibia’s fascinating history includes
overcoming colonialism and apartheid, and is explained in both the
chronology and introduction. Several hundred cross-referenced
entries on notable events, personalities, and points of culture and
religion account for the body of this well-rounded work, and six
appendixes enhance its quality as a ready-reference resource.
VERDICT This is an outstanding title for those interested in
Namibia.
*Library Journal*
This book is recommended for libraries with an interest in African
studies.
*American Reference Books Annual*
Tonchi (Univ. of Namibia), Lindeke (formerly, Univ. of
Massachusetts, Lowell), and the late Grotpeter, with their combined
expertise, here aim to expand users' knowledge of Namibia.
Namibia's story is rooted in the struggle for independence;
overall, not much is known about the men and women whose
contributions made this country a success. This second edition (1st
ed., by Grotpeter, CH, Jun'95, 32-5411) traces the history of
Namibia chronologically from prehistoric to colonial and
postcolonial days, enabling students to follow both the struggle
and recent events. The dictionary section is organized
alphabetically and features several hundred cross-referenced
entries that discuss important personalities, politics, economy,
foreign relations, religion, and culture, allowing for in-depth
study of the various subjects. The introductory essay serves as a
fitting guide to the entries. In addition, helpful appendixes
provide a quick reference for some of the major events and key
persons in Namibian history. The extensive bibliography, arranged
by topic, offers researchers further reading suggestions. For
students, scholars, and others wanting to know more about Namibia,
this is an excellent gateway to valuable information sources.
Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates through
researchers/faculty; general readers.
*CHOICE*
Historical Dictionary of Namibia particularly strong on historical
and contemporary personalities, but also includes many other
references which might not be expected, such as, for example, the
Supreme Being of the Hereros, the largest known meteorite, the
nation’s principal shopping mall, the mine which produces the
world’s purest diamonds, and two particularly remarkable sand
dunes.
*s*
Ask a Question About this Product More... |