520pp., illus., map, paperback, First SA Edition, Jonathan Ball Publishers, Johannesburg, 2025

ISBN: 9781776194964

First published in the USA in 2025.

A biography of Cecil John Rhodes (1853-1902) that demonstrates how his imperial vision of a white-dominated, connected, economically integrated southern Africa continues to shape the region today.

"William Kelleher Storey has given us the most exhaustive and meticulously researched biography of one of the most consequential figures of the modern age. While the notoriously megalomanic Rhodes saw himself as a colossus standing astride Africa and the British Empire, Storey cuts him wonderfully down to size to show us a flawed historical figure who was and is so fascinating precisely because he was so human. Storey reminds us of a man who failed more than he succeeded, who owed his success more to the contingencies of life than to genius, and who was a provincial whose influence extends around the globe. We live, for better and for worse, in the world that Rhodes wrought. It behooves us to understand him. Thanks to Storey, we can say we do." Jacob S. Dlamini, Princeton University

"This deeply researched book focuses on Rhodes's colonial vision for southern Africa which was rooted in mining, railways, and scientific agriculture. A do-er rather than a thinker, Rhodes's imprint on the country has more to do with his actions in support of white colonial expansion than his thought. This is apt to be forgotten in recent debates. Storey's rigorous analysis of Rhodes's material legacy in Southern Africa represents a major contribution to the field." Saul Dubow, Cambridge University

William Kelleher Storey is Professor of History and Dean of Arts and Humanities at Millsaps College. His books include Guns, Race, and Power in Colonial South Africa and Writing History: A guide for students. He has been recognised as statewide Professor of the Year by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

THE COLONIALIST, the vision of Cecil Rhodes

: Storey (W.)

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