Die herdenking van die Anglo-Boereoorlog in oënskou

Abstract

This article gives an overview of the centennial commemoration of the Anglo-Boer War. The philosophy of the commemoration, the formation of the Central Steering Committee as well as their initial problems relating to Government recognition and opposing views are discussed. Short summaries of events are given and the report focuses on national, regional and local events. The launch of the commemoration in Bloemfontein as well as the final events three years later in Bloemfontein, Pretoria and Johannesburg are highlighted.
Brief mention is made of the publication explosion as well as media coverage of the events. The conclusion is drawn that the dual aims of the Central Steering Committee, namely reconciliation and nation building were only partly realised to the extent that some understanding developed between the different races in the country.