M.A. (Historical Studies) / 1939 - 1945 were important years in the history of South Africa, not only because of the country's participation in the Second World War, but also due to the fact that during those years the foundations of modern South Africa were laid. Against this background the demobilisation of the Union Defence Force "soldier took place, a process to which the soldier had to adapt psychologically, socially and economically. The demobilisation process also occurred in the context of social, economic and political changes. These changes had a significant influence on the soldiers' expectations of post-war South Africa. Their expectations were firstly based on the 'historical claim' to compensation and secondly, on the provisions and benefits contained in the "Soldiers' Charter" which was announced in 1944. The Directorate of Demobilisation was responsible for the 'smooth' and 'speedy' demobilisation of the soldiers, but the Directorate was not geared for such a comprehensive task. Delays in repatriation and discharge led to dissatisfaction. The benefits awarded to the ex-soldier to aid his re-establishment in civilian life, were generous. But, when considering the numerous post-war expenses facing the soldier, the benefits seemed insufficient. Generally the soldiers adapted successfully to post-war conditions in the Union.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:uj/uj:3858 |
| Date | 11 February 2014 |
| Creators | Oosthuizen, Francois |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Rights | University of Johannesburg |
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