A 19th-century lawyer and politician who served as the 5th State President of the Orange Free State, known for his role in the Second Boer War and his efforts to unite the Boer states.
Francis William Reitz, a South African lawyer, politician, statesman, publicist, and poet, left an indelible mark on the country's history. As a multifaceted personality, he served as a member of parliament of the Cape Colony, Chief Justice and fifth State President of the Orange Free State, State Secretary of the South African Republic during the Second Boer War, and the first president of the Senate of the Union of South Africa.
Reitz's political and judicial career, which spanned over 45 years, was a testament to his adaptability and dedication to public service. Trained as a lawyer in Cape Town and London, he started his career in law practice and diamond prospecting before being appointed Chief Justice of the Orange Free State.
In the Orange Free State, Reitz played a crucial role in modernizing the legal system and the state's administrative organization. He was also an active participant in public life, contributing to the Afrikaner language and culture movement, as well as cultural life in general.
Reitz was a charismatic figure, known for his politics and openness. When State President Brand suddenly died in 1888, Reitz won the presidential elections unopposed, a testament to his popularity and leadership abilities.
In 1898, Reitz was appointed State Secretary of the South African Republic, becoming a leading Afrikaner political figure during the Second Boer War. His reluctance to shift allegiance to the British led him to go into voluntary exile after the war ended.
Several years later, Reitz returned to South Africa and established a law practice in Pretoria. He re-entered politics in the late 1900s and was chosen as the first president of the Senate upon the declaration of the Union of South Africa in 1910.
Francis William Reitz's remarkable career and contributions to South African law, politics, and culture have left a lasting impact on the country's history. His legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of South Africans.
Today, Francis William Reitz is remembered as a giant of South African politics and law, whose varied career and contributions have had a lasting impact on the country's history.
Born in 1870
A skilled lawyer and politician who played a key role in shaping South Africa's government and served as a prominent international statesman. He's also known for his influential ideas on holism and evolution.
Born in 1825
The 5th President of the South African Republic, a Boer war hero who fought against British colonization, and later became a symbol of Afrikaner nationalism. He's most known for his resistance against British rule and his role in shaping South Africa's history.
90 Years Old
The last State President of apartheid-era South Africa who led the country's transition to democracy and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. He's known for his role in releasing Nelson Mandela from prison and dismantling the apartheid system.
