THE HUGE influence that Cecil Rhodes had in South Africa was not racism; perhaps at best, it could be described as naive colonialism.

In the Victorian era of empire building and expansionism, it was perhaps inevitable that such individuals (especially those who had countries named after them – Rhodesia) would line their own pockets.

By the same token, in earlier times would such famous British historical notaries, plunderers and privateers as Raleigh or Drake be so described?

Or would the settlers by opening up the west in the United States, whereby many native tribes were forced off their lands, or those who displaced the aboriginals in Australia also be defined as a racist? I don’t think so; it was an inevitable form of legalised possession.

Robert Clive of India made several fortunes through his astute militarism and dealings with local princes in that country. After he became governor of Bengal, he repudiated criticism of his acquired wealth by sarcastically declaring at a parliamentary inquiry: “I stand amazed at my own moderation”.

I believe it was Rhodes who once famously quoted: “To be born an Englishman is to win the first prize of life.” He was born in an age in which racism, apartheid and the rights of others were sadly not necessarily considered. Nations such as ours were built on brute strength, and yes, greed but certainly not racism – that hadn’t yet been invented.

GEOFF AXE
Kennington, Oxford