Abstract
M.A. (Historical Studies)
1939 - 1945 were important years in the history of South Africa,
not only because of the country's participation in the Second
World War, but also due to the fact that during those years the
foundations of modern South Africa were laid. Against this
background the demobilisation of the Union Defence Force "soldier
took place, a process to which the soldier had to adapt
psychologically, socially and economically.
The demobilisation process also occurred in the context of
social, economic and political changes. These changes had a
significant influence on the soldiers' expectations of post-war
South Africa. Their expectations were firstly based on the
'historical claim' to compensation and secondly, on the
provisions and benefits contained in the "Soldiers' Charter"
which was announced in 1944.
The Directorate of Demobilisation was responsible for the
'smooth' and 'speedy' demobilisation of the soldiers, but the
Directorate was not geared for such a comprehensive task. Delays
in repatriation and discharge led to dissatisfaction. The
benefits awarded to the ex-soldier to aid his re-establishment in
civilian life, were generous. But, when considering the numerous
post-war expenses facing the soldier, the benefits seemed
insufficient.
Generally the soldiers adapted successfully to post-war
conditions in the Union.