Legends & Legacies: A Story of a Community
Legends & Legacies: A Story of a Community is an eight-part documentary series that explores the rich history and lasting impact of the South African Jewish community. Hosted by Alan Swerdlow, the series traces the journey of Jewish settlers from early European exploration of the southern African coast to their significant contributions to South Africa’s social, economic, political, and cultural life. Through personal stories and historical insight, the series celebrates a resilient community whose pioneers and descendants helped shape the nation in fields ranging from business and politics to science, art, and activism.
Cast: Alan Swerdlow
Season 1
8 episodes
- 1. Comings and GoingsHow did the immigrant South African Jewish community arrive at the foot of Africa? Who were they, where did they come from, and where did they go?13CC1 h 0 minJul 11, 2021
- 2. Gib a Kook/Have a LookFrom hawkers to captains of industry, the same road was trudged.13CC1 h 0 minJul 18, 2021
- 3. Something TangibleThe establishment of the communal institutions, from graveyards to schools.13CC1 h 0 minJul 25, 2021
- 4. It all DependsThe integration of the community into the civil society that surrounded them.13CC1 h 0 minAug 1, 2021
- 5. Longings and BelongingsThe engagement of the community with the political realities of South Africa.13CC1 h 0 minAug 8, 2021
- 6. Wondering JewsThe thinkers, the philosophers, the writers, the people of science and medicine and the law — truly a ‘people of the book’.13CC1 h 0 minAug 15, 2021
- 7. My Child Could Do BetterSouth African Jewish involvement in theatre, the arts and creativity — and what it did for the community.13CC1 h 0 minAug 22, 2021
- 8. ConsiderationsAn informal gathering of Jewish family and friends before the Sabbath. We contemplate the present and the future of South Africa’s Jewish community.13CC1 h 0 minAug 29, 2021
Legends & Legacies: A Story of a Community
From distant shores to a lasting legacy—shaping a nation.
Legends & Legacies: A Story of a Community is an eight-part documentary series that explores the rich history and lasting impact of the South African Jewish community. Hosted by Alan Swerdlow, the series traces the journey of Jewish settlers from early European exploration of the southern African coast to their significant contributions to South Africa’s social, economic, political, and cultural life. Through personal stories and historical insight, the series celebrates a resilient community whose pioneers and descendants helped shape the nation in fields ranging from business and politics to science, art, and activism.
Creators and cast
- Directors
- Debbie Thwaites, Helen Smit
- Created by
- Mark Wade
- Cast
- Alan Swerdlow
Maturity rating
13Check the rating before watching with younger viewers.
Audio languages
Afrikaans, English, Hebrew
Where to watch
Not currently listed on any streaming, rental or purchase service.