Tangling the Lion's tale, from Apartheid cop to crusader for justice

Privately published, hardcover, illustrated, 274 pages, condition: new.

"Tangling the Lion's Tale" is a biography about Donald Card, a former South African policeman who transitioned from an apartheid-era figure to a human rights advocate. The book explores Card's complex journey, highlighting his involvement in the TRC hearings and his later role in reconciliation efforts.

Donald Card was a police officer during the apartheid era in South Africa, notably in Duncan Village. Academic articles note that he was involved in investigations after the 1952 riots and gained a reputation for his involvement in violence and intimidation. Some individuals recalled being manhandled by police, including Card, during that period. 

The TRC and Reconciliation:

Card's story took a significant turn during the TRC hearings in the Eastern Cape in 1996 and 1997, where allegations of torture against him surfaced. However, he later became known for his role in the reconciliation process, particularly his return of two notebooks containing letters written by Nelson Mandela during his imprisonment on Robben Island. 

Tangling the Lion's Tale:

The biography, published in 2007, examines this duality in Card's life - his past as a police officer during apartheid and his later advocacy for human rights and reconciliation. The book explores how Card's actions and reputation evolved from one of potential violence and intimidation to one of seeking reconciliation and remembrance. 

Contrasting Images:

The book highlights the stark contrast between the image of Card as a torturer and his later role in reconciliation, symbolized by his return of Mandela's letters, according to an analysis from UWC. This contrast forms the core of the book's exploration of his life and legacy.