The Black Sash - Mary Burton
The Black Sash (Author-Signed Presentation Copy)
The Black Sash
An Inscribed First Edition Chronicle of Anti-Apartheid Resistance and Human Rights Advocacy
Bibliographic Specifications
- Title: The Black Sash
- Author: Mary Burton
- Publisher: Jacana Media, Johannesburg
- Publication Date: 2015
- ISBN-13: 9781431422289
- Edition Details: First Edition, First Impression. Highly collectible association copy featuring a signed personal inscription by the author on the title page.
- Binding: Original publisher's premium illustrated limp card wrappers with French flaps.
- Physical Format: Octavo (8vo), 216 pages. Illustrated with historical black-and-white archival photographs documenting political protests.
- Language: English
Official Condition Report
- The Book: Very Good Plus (VG+)
- Exterior / Wraps: The glossy card covers are exceptionally bright, flat, and square. Only very slight, microscopic storage wear present along the delicate cover edges. The spine is uncreased, unbroken, and structurally flawless.
- Interior: Fine / Near Mint. The internal pages are completely white, crisp, and clean. Free of text highlighting, marginalia, or corner folds.
- Provenance / Inscription: Features an authentic, clear ink presentation dedication by the author on the title page: “For Rosemary, With best wishes and in recognition of our common background, Mary Burton.”
- The Dust Jacket: Not Applicable (As Issued)
Synopsis & Historical Value
Mary Burton’s The Black Sash offers an inside perspective on one of South Africa’s most resilient human rights organizations. Founded in 1955 by white liberal women to protest the Nationalist government's disenfranchisement of Coloured voters, the Black Sash evolved into a fierce, non-violent liberation force. Burton traces how these volunteers ran advice offices, monitored courts, exposed forced removals, and stood in silent, iconic protest with black sashes draped across their shoulders. This signed copy bridges the gap between historical record and living provenance.
Author Profile: Mary Burton
Mary Burton is a towering figure in South African human rights advocacy and a former National President of the Black Sash (serving from 1986 to 1990). Born in Argentina, she moved to South Africa and dedicated her life to dismantling Apartheid structures. Her monumental contribution to the liberation struggle led to her appointment as one of the 17 commissioners on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in 1995. Her writings provide an authoritative voice on civil disobedience, political justice, and democratic transitions.
