Cecil Rhodes and Other Statues

Book excerpt: Like the Pharaohs he admired, Cecil John Rhodes (1853-1902) hoped to be remembered for 4,000 years. Barely 120 years later, many people want him expunged from history altogether. A major figure in the British Empire, he has been the subject of a bitter international controversy. This book sheds new light on a complicated story, relates the history of the Rhodes Scholarships, and suggests common-sense rules for commemorating contested figures as diverse as Robert E. Lee and Mahatma Gandhi.. Book Review 1: “It reads like a dream. At once masterful, thoughtful, and accessible.” -- Nigel Biggar, Regius Professor of Moral and Pastoral Theology, Christ Church College, Oxford Book Review 2: “Important, timely, and politically electrifying.” -- Edwin Cameron, Former Justice of South Africa’s Constitutional Court Book Review 3: “I could not put it down. I admire how you manage to combine a judicious and balanced approach while writing a book that is so exciting.” -- Timothy Radcliffe, OP, Blackfriars, Oxford Book Review 4: “Taut, clearly written, packed with information, judicious, personal, and direct.” -- Robert Baldock, Former Managing Director, Yale University Press, London Book Review 5: “Well done. A cool forensic account. Very timely.” -- Michael Holman, Former Africa Editor, Financial Times