Abstract:
The overall objective of this research is to determine the nature and measure the level of historical consciousness in a particular population in present day South Africa. To achieve this objective the study was divided into a theoretical study of the concept of historical consciousness and an empirical study to measure historical consciousness among a sample group by means of a questionnaire. This study consists of 6 chapters. In Chapter 1 the necessity and importance of this research is explained. It is stated that historical consciousness fulfills an important function in national development. Chapter 2 deals with the concept of historical consciousness, which is a sense of awareness of the past, the present and future and their relationship to one another. The structure and functions in society of historical consciousness are explained, and its relevance for history teaching clarified. Chapter 3 describes the background of the Tswana people, including their demographical, geographical, historical and cultural background. Chapters 4 and 5 interpret the empirical study itself. The empirical study by means of a questionnaire forms the core of this study. The questionnaire consists of three parts dealing with the basic issue of historical consciousness (questions 6-23); analysis of the developmental stage of historical consciousnessm (questions 24-47); and intensified descriptive questionnaire (questions 48-79). Chapter 6 contains the conclusion and recommendations. The basic finding of the study is that, in terms of interest in history, the level of historical consciousness among the sample group is relatively high. However, the respondents don't have a synthesized correct view of history. There are flaws in their historical consciousness. It is recommended that history should be taken as a compulsory subject in South African schools of its suitability for the purpose of establishing a national identity and contributing towards nation building, reconciliation and cooperation.
