Krotoa (known as Eva to the Dutch and English settlers)
Names: Krotoa (known as Eva to the Dutch and English settlers)
Born: Circa 1643, Western Cape, South Africa
Died: 29 July 1674, Robben Island, Western Cape
In summary: f Khoi woman who worked as a domestic servant in the Van Riebeeck house and a translator for the Dutch authorities. Her marriage was the first
As her command of the Dutch language and her familiarity with Dutch ways grew, so did her usefulness as an interpreter. Krotoa established herself as a staunch friend of the Dutch, negotiating a co-operative relationship between the fort and the followers of her rich relative Oedasoa. She was later instrumental in working out terms for ending the First Dutch-Khoi-khoi War.
References
- ‘The Leader’ (date unknown) Supplement series in The Sowetan.
- Morris, M. (2004) Every Step of the Way: The journey to freedom in South Africa. Funded by the Ministry of Education. Published by HSRC Press, p 62
