The Treaty of Vereeniging was signed in May 1902 by James Barry Munnik Hertzog, a Boer commander who rose to the rank of general during the Second Boer War. Beyond his military service, he served as the third prime minister of the Union of South Africa, holding the position from 1924 until 1939.
Academic Background and Early Practice
Educated at Paul Roos Gymnasium and Stellenbosch University, Hertzog later studied law at the University of Amsterdam. He earned his doctorate in law on 12 November 1892. Upon returning, he maintained a law practice in Pretoria until 1895, when he accepted an appointment to the Orange Free State High Court.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Military Leadership and Political Rise
During the conflict of 1899–1902, Hertzog served as assistant chief commandant of the Orange Free State military forces. He was identified as a persistent leader among the bitter-enders. Following the war, he entered politics as the chief organiser of the Orangia Unie Party, later serving as Attorney-General and Director of Education for the Orange River Colony.
Ministerial Tenure and Legislation
As Minister of Justice in the new Union, Hertzog frequently clashed with Premier Botha over his stance on British influence. In 1924, his National Party formed the Pact Government. His administration introduced Afrikaans as an official language in 1925, established a new national flag in 1928, and oversaw the creation of the South African Iron and Steel Industrial Corp in 1930.
Ideology and Foreign Policy
Hertzog advocated for Afrikaner cultural development and maintained a republican stance regarding the British Empire. In the 1930s, he favored revising the Treaty of Versailles and viewed Nazi Germany as a potential ally. Following his resignation in 1939 over the entry into World War II, he openly praised Nazism in 1941, suggesting it be adapted to local needs.
Fast facts
- Born: 3 April 1866, Wellington
- Died: 21 November 1942, Pretoria
- Military Rank: General
- Prime Minister: 1924–1939
- Political Party: National Party
- Religion: Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk
- Language: English
Questions readers ask
What was Hertzog's role in the Boer War?
He served as the assistant chief commandant of the Orange Free State military forces and was known as a determined leader of the bitter-enders.
When did Hertzog leave office?
He served as prime minister until 1939, resigning after the government entered World War II against his efforts.
.jpg)
