HIST: 1950s Resistance & Repression

Why was the South African Communist Party banned in 1950?

It was banned under the Suppression of Communism Act 1950 because the apartheid government saw it as a threat to its control and linked it to anti-apartheid resistance.

What was the aim of banning the Communist Party?

To silence opposition and stop movements fighting for equality and workers’ rights.

What happened to Communist Party members after the ban?

They either went underground, went into exile, or joined other liberation movements like the ANC.

What was the ANC Programme of Action?

A strategy adopted in 1949 by the African National Congress to use stronger methods of resistance against apartheid.

What methods did the Programme of Action promote?

• Boycotts

• Strikes

• Civil disobedience

• Mass protests

Why was the Programme of Action important?

It marked a shift from passive resistance to active mass resistance against apartheid.

Who was Albert Luthuli?

A teacher, chief, and leader of the African National Congress who promoted non-violent resistance against apartheid.

What role did Luthuli play in the ANC?

He became President-General of the ANC in 1952 and led resistance during a critical period.

Why was Luthuli removed as chief?

Because the apartheid government punished him for his involvement in anti-apartheid activism.

What was Luthuli’s approach to resistance?

He strongly supported non-violent protest, even when others moved toward armed resistance.

What is Luthuli best known for internationally?

He became the first African to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1960.

What is Luthuli’s legacy?

He is remembered as a major leader of peaceful resistance against apartheid.