Autshumato facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Autshumato Harry de Strandloper
|
|
|---|---|
| Autshumato | |
| Born |
Unknown
c. 1625 |
| Died | 1663 |
| Nationality | Gorinhaikona |
| Other names | Harry de Strandloper, Herry de Strandloper, Autshumao |
| Occupation | Interpreter |
| Years active | 1630-1663 |
| Known for | Interpreter for the Dutch Settlers of Cape Town |
Autshumato, also known as Herry or Harry de Strandloper, was an important leader of the Khoikhoi Gorinhaikona people. He worked as an interpreter, helping Europeans and his own people talk to each other. This was before and during the time the Dutch set up their first settlement in what is now Cape Town, South Africa in 1652.
His exact birth date is not known, but he lived from about 1625 to 1663.
Contents
Early Life and Work
In 1630, Autshumato traveled to Bantam, a place far away. There, he learned to speak English and Dutch. This helped him to make trade easier between his people and the European settlers. As a chief and an interpreter, he became quite wealthy.
In 1632, Autshumato moved to Robben Island. He worked there as a postman and a contact person for European ships. These ships often stopped at the island on their long journeys. Eight years later, he moved back to the mainland. Autshumato then worked hard to create trade connections between the Gorinhaikonas and the Dutch.
Arrival of the Dutch Settlers
On April 6, 1652, Jan van Riebeeck arrived at the Cape. He worked for the Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie (V.O.C.), a powerful Dutch trading company. Van Riebeeck came to take control of the growing settlement. This settlement eventually became the city of Cape Town.
Imprisonment and Later Life
In 1658, Jan van Riebeeck had Autshumato imprisoned on Robben Island. However, Autshumato managed to escape with another prisoner. Even after his escape, the Dutch settlers allowed him to continue his important work as an interpreter. He kept this role for the rest of his life.
Autshumato passed away in 1663.
Family
Krotoa, also known as Eva, was Autshumato's niece. She also played an important role as an interpreter.
Autshumato Project
In 2007, a special project was named after Autshumato. The South African Department of Arts and Culture and the Centre for Text Technology (CTexT®) at the North-West University started it. The project aims to create and support open-source translation software. This helps to promote many languages in South Africa. It also makes information easier for everyone to access.
