Bøger af Robert Burrett

The development of the railway system in south Central Africa was a key force driving the economic development of Zimbabwe and Zambia, and to a lesser extent their neighbours. Its vision, and much of the initial funding, came from British businessman, political and imperialist, Cecil John Rhodes. A number of independent railway companies, later amalgamated as Rhodesia Railways, facilitated the mining and industrial expansion of these modern states. They were also important in the transport for goods, the mail and passengers. Later, split into separate national companies, this short, but profusely illustrated, booklet is a brief summary of the early development of the railway system. The numerous historical photographs are held in the collections of the National Railway Museum in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The booklet pays tribute to some of those who were involved in the creation of the railway network of the region. It is a reminder of the vital importance of the railways, a disinherited heritage, that crisscrosses the African landscape.

Zimbabwe has one of Africa's great concentrations of prehistoric art. Scattered throughout the country are a multitude of painted and engraved rock art sites, the product of several societies in the past. Most were painted by San hunter-gatherers (foragers) who lived in this part of Southern Africa over many millennia. It is this, the Foragers' art, which is the prime focus of this copiously illustrated booklet which uses photographs taken at many rock art sites throughout the country.The art is no simple matter; it is not the product of idle minds, but it portrays the complex beliefs and social ceremonies of these now lost communities. We do not pretend to answer all questions and consider this booklet as an introduction to the art. We point to various approaches towards understanding the complex, and sometimes conflicting symbolism of the art. In this we are inspired by historic and contemporary Khoesan ethnography, observations on wild animal animal behaviour, and current regional academic literature on the fascinating rock art of Southern Africa. We seek to answer many of the basic questions which we are often asked about the age, technique and meaning of the art. We aim to encourage discussion and deeper appreciation of the art. We must try to understand the art from the perspectives of the people who made it - we must escape from dated and simplistic reductionism based on our own societies' beliefs, symbolism and ceremonies which are often clouded by contemporary concerns. Such an approach is undoubtedly difficult, but it is necessary. This booklet is a challenge to look again at the painted and engraved prehistoric images of Zimbabwe's diverse rock art. Hopefully it will result in a deeper appreciation of the art and encourage visitors to get to see these painted canvases. Through promoting a better understanding, we hope to contribute to its preservation and conservation for the appreciation of future generations.