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Legum, Colin, 1919-2003 (South African journalist and writer on African politics)

 Person

Dates

  • Existence: 3 January 1919 - 8 June 2003

Biography

Colin Legum (1919-2003) was a distinguished South African-born journalist and author known for his significant contributions to the field of journalism and his active involvement in the struggle for social justice. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Legum's career spanned several decades and took him to various corners of the world.

Legum's early years were marked by his engagement in anti-apartheid activism, which was gaining momentum during his lifetime. He relocated to the United Kingdom in the 1940s, where he continued his commitment to reporting on issues related to apartheid and colonialism in South Africa.

He made a name for himself as a journalist and commentator, working for esteemed publications such as The Observer and The Guardian, where he covered African affairs, decolonization, and international politics. His reporting was instrumental in shedding light on the struggles and aspirations of African nations during a pivotal period in history.

Colin Legum also authored several books, notably Pan-Africanism: A Short Political Guide and Crisis in Kenya: Land and Freedom. His writings contributed to the global discourse on African politics and liberation movements.

Throughout his career, Legum remained dedicated to the ideals of justice and equality, advocating for the end of apartheid and supporting the rights of oppressed communities. His efforts as a journalist and author left a lasting impact on the understanding of African politics and the quest for social justice. He died on 8 June 2003.

Found in 1 Collection or Record:

Papers of Colin Legum

 Fonds
Identifier: Coll-693
Scope and Contents This collection comprises the papers of Colin Legum, an Anti-Apartheid activist and political exile, and later newpaper political correspondent. It includes correspondence files, committee minutes, freelance articles, files in legal document wallets labelled alphabetically, office filing, published periodicals, journals, research files, press cuttings, notes, publications, and newspapers relating to the post-colonial history of many countries mostly in Africa, but also in the Middle East and...
Dates: Majority of material found within 1950s-1970s