The book "Willem Adriaan van der Stel and other historical essays" by the famous historian George McCall Thiel tells about prominent figures of the South African Cape and other interesting historical events. The author examines the life and activities of one of the most famous officials of the Dutch India Company - Willem Adrian van der Stel, who started the colonization of this region. The book also includes other interesting historical essays that expand the understanding of the past of the Southern African continent. With the help of accurate analyzes and in-depth research, the author helps the reader to better understand the important events and figures that shaped the history of this part of the world.