Potchefstroom se stigting 1838 of 1839?

Abstract

Erroneous and/or controversial interpretation of sources played an important pall in the acceptance of 1838 as Potchefstroom's date of establishment. Interest in the pioneering era of the Trekkers across the Vaal River, however, led to new information and a reinterpretation of well-known sources. From these it is evident that Andries Hendrik Potgieter obtained land between the Vet and Vaal rivers in exchange for cattle during June 1838. The registration of farms commenced shortly afterwards. On learning that the Cape government might possibly interfere in the affairs of the Trekkers, Potgieter issued a 'declaration of independence' in early December 1838, according to which Mzilikazi's territory would be occupied. After ascertaining that Mzilikazi had fled from the area, Potgieter decided on a permanent settlement. Various sources of information and circumstantial evidence indicate that Potchefstroom was founded in March/April of 1839, while the first registration of farms only took place on 3 June of that year.