Overview

The History Society is open to all students, regardless of grade or age or whether they take history as a subject. The presence at our meetings of other staff members or the parents of students is also welcomed. The History Society’s purpose is to invoke a greater interest among students at Bishops for the study of history, besides promoting more awareness and knowledge of both national and international politics. It also provides a forum for senior students who are interested in historical or political issues, but could not fit history into their subject choices. Guest speakers cover topics in about 45 minutes to an hour, after which members are encouraged to ask questions.

Past Activities

DA Minister of Defence David Maynier spoke on the SANDF's lack of combat-readiness and political oversight challenges. Members also attended a talk by Sir Richard Evans at the Cape Town Holocaust Centre, where he discussed his expert testimony in the Deborah Lipstadt vs David Irving trial. R.W. Johnson addressed the society about Julius Malema’s political influence, arguing that he was likely to face consequences within the ANC.

In another session, David Maynier returned to discuss in detail the SANDF's challenges, including poor conditions for rank-and-file personnel, political misuse of air force assets, and the high ratio of generals to troops. He described the SANDF as becoming more of a “social welfare agency” than a defense force. Chairman Jack Nebe thanked him for the talk.

On 6 February 2013, Daniel Silke gave a talk on global political and economic trends, forecasting rising influence from China, India, and BRICS nations. He discussed economic optimism in Africa, warned of technological disruption, and acknowledged the role of “black swan” events. He praised the students for their questions and received a bottle of wine in appreciation.

On 7 May 2013, Michael Morris, Cape Argus journalist and editorial writer, discussed newspaper operations, the Secrecy Bill, and journalism history. He demonstrated shorthand techniques and donated two of his books to the society.

On 24 July, Mrs Hilary Van der Vyver gave a talk on WWII air ace Squadron Leader Pat Pattle, highlighting his exceptional career in the RAF and honoring his legacy. She discussed how forgotten figures like Pattle offer valuable biographical studies for history students.

Two meetings took place in early 2013: - Warrant Officer Keith Chandler of Diep River Police discussed teen-related crime, drug awareness, and law enforcement procedures. - On 5 March, Advocate Jeremy Gauntlett discussed the structure of South African law and the Constitution’s separation of powers.