ABSTRACT

First published in 1992, this title explores the religious diversity of South Africa, organizing it into a single coherent narrative and providing the first comparative study and introduction to the topic. David Chidester emphasizes the fact that the complex distinctive character of South African religious life has taken shape with a particular economic, social and political context, and pays special attention to the creativity of people who have suffered under conquest, colonialism and apartheid.

With an overview of African traditional religion, Christian missions, and African innovations during the nineteenth century, this reissue will be of great value to students of religious studies, South African history, anthropology, sociology, and political studies.

chapter |34 pages

African religion

chapter |39 pages

Christian missions

chapter |38 pages

Protestant churches

chapter |36 pages

Independent churches

chapter |39 pages

Religious pluralism

chapter |35 pages

Religious legitimation

chapter |40 pages

Religious liberation