Weird Little Guys

CZM Rewind: Blood River & Mission South Africa

11 snips
Jan 1, 2026
Dive into the complex history of Blood River, exploring its evolution into Afrikaner mythology and the implications for apartheid identity. Discover the chilling prophecies that spurred violence, including attempts on Mandela and Zuma. Hear about the Boeremag's bombings and trials, along with their connections to modern extremist networks across the globe. The discussion intertwines past terror with contemporary U.S. policies affecting South African Afrikaners, revealing a haunting legacy of race and nationalism.
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INSIGHT

Myth Made Into Political Foundation

  • The Day of the Vow and Blood River myth were politically constructed and later amplified to justify Afrikaner nationalism.
  • Leonard Thompson and historical records show the vow's origin and significance were embellished over decades.
ANECDOTE

Academic Tarred For Doubt

  • In 1979, professor Flores van Jaarsveld was tarred and feathered for questioning Blood River's historicity.
  • Eugene Terre'Blanche's group publicly attacked him to defend Afrikaner mythology.
INSIGHT

Prophecies With Shaky Provenance

  • Van Rensburg's prophecies are vague, orally transmitted, and later reconstructed with weak provenance.
  • Adrian Snyman's modern interpretations largely shape contemporary extremist actions.
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