Capital, labour and the S.A. State: 1939-1952

Abstract

This paper is essentially a summary of part of a dissertation I am preparing for a M. Soc. Science degree. The primary focus is on the labour movement in South Africa during the forties, but as is shown below, to understand the fortunes of labour one has to also evaluate the role of Capital and the State. My initial reason for choosing to investigate the 1940 - 1950 period was that the state during these years was prepared to offer a measure of statutory recognition to African unions. Another consideration was that there was a good deal of labour unrest in the mid-forties. The struggle between Capital and Labour intensified during these years, the like of which had not been seen since the early 1920's. For these and other reasons the 1940's must be an important period to investigate, yet little work has been completed to date. This acted as an additional stimulus to me.