A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Doctoral Degree in the Faculty of Human Science, at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. This thesis examines how globalization poses immediate and long-term challenges and opportunities for small towns and, as a consequence, for local economic development policy. The author's perspectives raise vital questions about the shape, substance, and function of small towns in an increasing interdependent and competative global economy. The thesis provide both retrospective and prospective insight into the ways in which poverty, industrial migration, economic globalization and technological innovation affect public-sector choices for small towns approaching the turn of a new century.