Peter Abrahams

Date of Birth: March 19, 1919

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: January 18, 2017

Biography

Peter Abrahams, born on March 19, 1919, in Vrededorp, a suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa, was a prominent novelist and political commentator. Abrahams is best known for his works that explore the complexities of racial and political issues in South Africa during the apartheid era. He began his career as a journalist before transitioning into fiction writing. His first novel, “Mine Boy,” published in 1946, is considered one of the earliest works to portray the struggles of black South Africans in the urban environment. Over his career, Abrahams published numerous novels, essays, and autobiographies, including “The Path of Thunder” and “Tell Freedom.” Abrahams spent a significant portion of his life in Jamaica, where he moved in 1956. There, he continued to write and became a respected voice in both the local and international literary communities. He was also known for his involvement in political activism, advocating for social justice and equality throughout his life.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter Abrahams

1. Peter Abrahams was one of the first black South African writers to gain international recognition.

2. He moved to London in the 1940s to escape the oppressive apartheid regime and further his writing career.

3. In addition to his novels, Abrahams wrote several influential essays and articles on race and politics.

4. He was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga (Silver) by the South African government in 2012 for his contributions to literature.

5. Abrahams was a close contemporary of notable figures such as George Lamming and Chinua Achebe, and his work often explored similar themes of colonialism and identity.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Peter Abrahams

1. “Mine Boy is about the South Africa I knew. It was a South Africa where the oppressed were beginning to stir.”

2. “I write to try and understand the world, to find meaning in the chaos.”

3. “In literature, we find the truth of our humanity.”

4. “Freedom is not a gift, it is a right that must be fought for.”

5. “The pen is a powerful weapon against tyranny and injustice.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth Peter Abrahams achieved is estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his career.

Children

Peter Abrahams had three children: two daughters, Naomi and Wendy, and a son, Michael. His family was an integral part of his life, and his experiences as a father often influenced his writing.