Dr. Meredith McKittrick

Meredith McKittrick, a historian of Southern Africa at Georgetown University, dives into the intersection of environment and identity in her research. She discusses the Kalahari Thirstland Redemption Scheme and how white farmers responded to perceived climate threats. The podcast highlights the controversial river diversion proposals, revealing their ties to notions of racial superiority and the shaping of collective identities. McKittrick also unpacks the roots of apartheid, exploring how these environmental narratives influenced social hierarchies in early 20th century South Africa.