Entre a vida e a morte: David Webster (1945-1989), ativismo e antropologia na África Austral
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5380/cra.v26i2.99122Abstract
This article examines the life and work of South African anthropologist and activist David Webster, highlighting the tensions between academic anthropology and political activism in a context of repression. Recognized as one of South Africa’s most promising anthropologists during apartheid, Webster’s career was tragically cut short by his assassination in 1989. Through a biographical analysis, an assessment of the impact of his death, and a critical evaluation of his doctoral thesis—posthumously published in Portuguese—the article explores how his academic and political trajectory has been interpreted within the anthropological community and how his work remains relevant today. It argues that reassessing his career contributes to the history of anthropology by addressing critical events often marginalized in the field. Additionally, it examines how the revival of his research on the Chopi people offers new insights into specific areas of anthropology, particularly in studies on southern Mozambique, where his legacy remains especially significant.
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