Buccaneer: A biography Of Sir Joseph Benjamin Robinson – Jeremy Lawrence

Description

Buccaneer: A Biography of Sir Joseph Benjamin Robinson by Jeremy Lawrence is a fascinating account of one of South Africa’s most notorious mining magnates. This biography traces the life and career of Sir Joseph Benjamin Robinson, first Baronet, who played a pivotal role in the country’s diamond and gold mining industries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through extensive research and sharp narrative, Lawrence uncovers both the entrepreneurial brilliance and the ruthless ambition that earned Robinson wealth, power, and widespread controversy.

The book delves into Robinson’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a dominant force in the development of South African mining. It explores his complex character, business rivalries, and the political manoeuvring that secured his position in an era of rapid industrial expansion. Buccaneer also examines the ethical questions surrounding colonial-era mining and Robinson’s lasting impact on South Africa’s economic history.

Essential reading for anyone interested in South African history, industrial pioneers, or the early days of the mining boom, Buccaneer offers a compelling portrait of a driven and divisive figure.