The Republic of South Africa is easily the richest nation in Africa, and one of the wealthiest in the world in terms of natural resources. In the latter half of the 20th century, South Africa was frequently the focus of world news due to its racist apartheid policies. The past decade has finally seen the end of legal racism. This book surveys the history, people and culture of South Africa, with emphasis on its current economy, industry, and place in the political world.