J.B.M. Hertzog

James Barry Munnik Hertzog, typically referred to as J.B.M. Hertzog was a prominent South African general and politician. Born in 1866 -- the same year diamonds were discovered in Kimberley, marking the start of South Africa's mineral revolution and, in turn, the protracted struggle between British and Afrikaner forces to control the Transvaal and Orange Free State republics -- Hertzog's military and political career showcased the intense contestations over territorial sovereignty, ethnic and racial identity, and nationalism that were the hallmarks of South Africa's pre-apartheid history.

Nationalist politician

Hertzog formally entered politics in 1906, as co-founder of the Orangia Unie (Orangia Union) party in the Orange River Colony. Following the colony's grant of responsible self-government in November 1907, he became one of four cabinet members in its first (and only) government.