First formed in the early twentieth century, the ANC Women's League has grown into a leading organization in the women's movement in South Africa. The league has been at the forefront of the nation's century-long transition from an authoritarian state to a democracy that espouses gender equality as a core constitutional value. It has, indeed, always regarded itself as the women's movement, frequently asserting its primacy as a vanguard organization and as the only legitimate voice of the women of South Africa. But, as this deeply insightful book shows, the history of the league is a more complicated affair-it was neither the only women's organization in the political field nor an easy ally for South African feminism.

First formed in the early twentieth century, the ANC Women's League has grown into a leading organization in the women's movement in South Africa. The league has been at the forefront of the nation's century-long transition from an authoritarian state to a democracy that espouses gender equality as a core constitutional value.

About the Author
Shireen Hassim is a professor in political studies at the University of the Witwatersrand and a widely published author in the field of gender politics in South Africa.


Book Information
ISBN 9780821421567
Author Shireen Hassim
Format Paperback
Page Count 160
Imprint Ohio University Press
Publisher Ohio University Press