Famed liberation fighter: a political biography of Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu, 1956-1979

Abstract

This thesis critically examines the life and identity of Solomon Mahlangu, a pivotal yet widely commemorated figure in South Africa’s liberation struggle. Drawing on extensive archival research, the thesis demystifies Mahlangu’s life by focusing on his formative years, beginning with his birth in 1956 in Mamelodi, northeast of Pretoria. It explores the socio-economic hardships of his childhood, his educational journey, and the political awakening catalysed by the 16 June 1976 uprisings. The research traces his trajectory into exile, culminating in his execution by hanging in 1979, and interrogates the legacy he left behind. By foregrounding overlooked biographical details and contextualising these within the broader national discourse, this thesis challenges the dominant commemorative narratives that have often silenced or simplified Mahlangu’s lived experiences. In doing so, it fills a critical gap in South African historiography, offering a nuanced portrait of a young man whose life and sacrifice continue to inspire generations. The thesis underscores the importance of biographical inquiry in reclaiming historical agency and enriching the collective memory of the nation’s struggle for freedom.