Triumphs and Heartaches: A Courageous Journey by South African Patriots is a memoir by Mosibudi Mangena, activist, politician and academic.

The book is a fascinating look at Mangena’s rich and varied life, and lends worthwhile practical philosophy drawn from wide experience.

Mail & Guardian has shared an excerpt from Triumphs and Heartaches in which Mangena speaks about the “colonial mentality” he believes afflicts South Africa, and how this dynamic comes into play in this country’s political life.

Read the excerpt:

The colonial mentality is manifestly prevalent in our country. Everywhere you look, you are confronted by evidence of this malady. And colonial mentality or, to put it another way, an inferiority complex, is an affliction that prevents people from behaving confidently and in their own interests.

I believe it is one of the factors contributing to our difficulties to succeed and progress.

How come, 20 years after the attainment of democracy, with political, legislative and executive powers in our hands, we are still singing songs about whites taking our land? Why don’t we use the power we have to right the wrong?

• Continue reading: Mail & Guardian

Book details

• Triumphs and Heartaches: A Courageous Journey by South African Patriots by Mosibudi Mangena
  EAN: 9781770104129
  Find this book with BOOK Finder!