"An Ordinary Country" disputes the notion of a "miracle" transition in South Africa. It argues that the new South Africa had to happen in the way it did because of the specific history of the country and the players involved. While it identifies some of the turning points at which critical choices were made by local and international forces, it shows why, in retrospect, the known decisions were made rather than other possible ones. The author explores a range of issues in post-apartheid South Africa, including national identity and the rainbow nation; the Truth and Reconciliation Commission; and the role and status of language; showing the volatility, the tentativeness, and the fluidity of the situation that is evolving.