Observations relative to the origin and history of the Bushmen

This paper presents observations on the Origin and History of the Bushmen (Bosjiesman), a group the author considers a subdivision of the Khoikhoi race. Dr Smith begins by noting the rapid decay and intermixture of the genuine Khoikhoi, stressing the urgency of recording information about the remaining "savage portion" of the race before its extinction. Origin and History Smith disputes the then-current opinion that the Bushmen were solely created by the "outrages of the colonists." While acknowledging colonial oppression may have augmented their numbers by creating poverty, he argues that the group existed from time immemorial and that their origin is rooted in poverty and crime. This includes people driven by misfortune or imprudence (poverty) and those expelled from society due to criminal behaviour (crime). Historical evidence and traditions show their ancient existence across various South African districts, including the Great Karoo and Namaqualand, long before significant European influence reached those areas.