The Invention of the Red Line, 1915–1928

Abstract

South African rule in Namibia began with the capitulation of German troops in July 1915. The transfer of power from one colonial authority to another, however, involved considerably more than a simple continuation of colonial rule. Particularly in the early years of South African occupation, the experience of colonial rule varied significantly by geographic region and social group. For example, for the African population in central and southern Namibia, the occupation brought new opportunities for independence. Conversely, for their former “masters,” the occupation signaled an erosion of self-image and a threat to economic prosperity.