This new edition of the leading introduction to the subject presents
the South African Constitution in its historical and social context.
The book provides students and teachers of constitutional law and
politics an invaluable resource through which to understand the
emergence, development and continuing application of the supreme law of
South Africa. The chapters present a detailed analysis of the different
provisions of the Constitution, providing a clear, accessible and
informed view of the Constitution's structure and role in the new South
Africa. Main themes include a description of the historical context and
emergence of the Constitution through the democratic transition; the
implementation of the Constitution and its role in building a new
democratic society; the interaction of the Constitution with the
existing law and legal institutions, including the common law,
indigenous law and traditional authorities; as well as a focus on the
strains placed on the new constitutional order by both the historical
legacies of apartheid and new problems facing South Africa.