The House of Shaka: The Zulu Monarchy Illustrated is a milestone in the history of the famous Zulu monarchy. The most complete account yet written of the stirring and often tragic saga of the Zulu kings, it marks a distinct departure from earlier books on the subject. It adopts a 'Zulu' perspective which shows that 'there has always been a Zulu king since the time of Shaka' and counteracts the view that the Zulu royal line ended with King Cetshwayo as a result of the British conquest during the Ango-Zulu War of 1879.
Instead, as Dr Ballard points out, the enduring reality of Zulu nationalism and ethnic consciousness has always been symbolised and embodied in the institution of the monarchy.
The House of Shaka gives a crisp, concise biography of each of the eight Zulu kings from Shaka, the founder of the kingdom, down to the career of the present monarch, King Zwelithini Goodwill kaBhekuzulu. Dr.Ballard provides a measured and balanced assessment of the events and processes that each Zulu king encountered together with some revealing insights into their personalities and characters, their triumphs and follies. The highly readable narrative is enhanced by more than 100 illustrations, sketches and period photographs the largest and most comprehensive collection of rare and historic photographs on the entire Zulu royal family yet published in a single volume.
- Jacket Condition: Very Good
- Binding Condition: Very Good
