The development of the mining industry in South Africa up to 1900

Essay , 2020 , 7 Pages , Grade: B

History - Africa

This essay discusses the role of the state and mining companies in the development of the mining industry in South Africa up to 1900.

According to Shula Marks the discovery of diamonds in Griqualand west gave a way for large companies and underground mining at Kimberly in the late 1870s, it also gave a way for a wave of international investors; so called mine magnets such as Cecil Rhodes and de Beers which were heavily involved in this activities. Mining companies therefore played a major role in the development of diamond mining in South Africa. Marks also puts it clear that capital investment in the Cape government securities became a major role in the relationship between the Cape and Great Britain, the capital was furthering local interests through building railways and other public works. The state government was therefore also heavily involved in the diamond mining in South Africa.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• The role of the state and mining companies in the development of the mining industry in South Africa up to 1900.
• The Role of the Company
• De Beers Mining Company
• The Role of the State

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This essay examines the crucial roles played by mining companies and the state in the development of the diamond mining industry in South Africa up to 1900. It explores how these two forces shaped the industry, from the initial discovery of diamonds to the establishment of complex mining operations and the development of marketing strategies that influenced global perceptions of diamonds.

• The impact of De Beers Mining Company on the diamond market
• The role of the state in regulating and promoting diamond mining
• The influence of Cecil Rhodes on the diamond industry and South African politics
• The organization of labor and the development of mining compounds
• The development of advertising and marketing strategies for diamonds

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• The essay begins by highlighting the role of De Beers Mining Company, founded by Cecil Rhodes, in the development of the diamond industry in South Africa. Rhodes's vision and strategies, including the acquisition of diamond claims and the creation of a company dedicated to operating the mines, are emphasized. The essay further explores how De Beers, through a group of merchants called "the syndicate," aimed to control diamond prices by promoting the concept of scarcity.
• The essay then delves into the marketing strategies employed by De Beers to elevate diamonds to a position of luxury and exclusivity. The "a diamond is forever" slogan, developed by De Beers, is cited as a key element in their successful advertising campaign, which aimed to convince consumers to purchase diamonds as a symbol of permanence and value. This chapter discusses how De Beers' advertising, through various mediums like movies, magazines, and celebrities, contributed to the global perception of diamonds as precious gems.
• The essay continues by examining how De Beers maintained high diamond prices through a controlled supply chain. The company's creation of the Central Selling Organisation, which managed the distribution of diamonds from various producers, effectively gave De Beers control over the supply and thus, the pricing of diamonds. By restricting the amount of diamonds entering the market, De Beers perpetuated the perception of scarcity, further bolstering demand and prices.
• The chapter then discusses the role of mining companies in organizing labor and creating a more structured workforce. The introduction of closed compounds, replacing the previously used open compounds, is presented as a significant step in managing the African workforce. The essay highlights the rationale behind the shift, including the need for better control over workers and safety concerns. It also discusses the company's efforts to improve the well-being of their workforce, including the provision of housing, food, and healthcare within the compounds.
• The essay then transitions to exploring the state's contributions to the development of the diamond industry. The annexation of the diamond fields by Britain, particularly Griqualand, is discussed as a crucial step in establishing a legal framework for diamond mining. The essay further analyzes the diamond mining legislation enacted in Griqualand, particularly the GW proclamation, which aimed to regulate the working of claims and ensure the efficient extraction of diamonds. This chapter explores the state's role in shaping the structure of ownership and ensuring the sustainability of diamond mining.
• Finally, the essay highlights the significant role played by Cecil Rhodes, both as a mining capitalist and a political figure, in the development of the diamond industry. Rhodes's combined economic, ideological, and political roles are examined, demonstrating how he used his influence to expand his diamond mining operations and secure territories for his business interests. The essay also discusses Rhodes's railway initiative, which brought substantial economic benefits to the diamond mining industry. This chapter concludes with an overview of Rhodes's significant impact on both the diamond industry and South African politics.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This preview focuses on the historical development of the diamond mining industry in South Africa, examining the interplay of state policies, mining companies, and influential individuals like Cecil Rhodes. Key themes include the establishment of De Beers Mining Company, the development of marketing strategies for diamonds, the organization of labor, and the impact of state legislation on mining operations. This preview offers a comprehensive overview of the subject without revealing major conclusions.

• Course: History
• Grade: B
• Author: Lwandze Dlamini (Author)
• Publication Year: 2020
• Pages: 7
• Catalog Number: V1436999
• ISBN (PDF): 9783346992932
• Language: English
• Tags: Mining industry , South Africa