South Africa, 1948-94 _ from apartheid state to 'rainbow nation’

What is Apartheid?

A policy of strict racial segregation and discrimination enforced in South Africa by the National Party from 1948.

What event is commonly associated with the beginning of Apartheid legislation?

The National Party's electoral victory in 1948.

What was the Freedom Charter?

A document adopted in 1955 by various anti-apartheid groups calling for a non-racial, democratic South Africa.

What was the Sharpeville Massacre?

A 1960 event where police opened fire on a peaceful protest against pass laws, killing 69 people.

What was the ANC's response to the Sharpeville Massacre?

The formation of its armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), in 1961.

What does 'grand apartheid' refer to?

The overarching policy designed to keep different races segregated, including housing and living areas.

What does 'petty apartheid' refer to?

Day-to-day segregation measures, such as separate facilities and public amenities for different races.

Who was Nelson Mandela?

A prominent anti-apartheid activist who became the leader of the ANC and the first president of a democratic South Africa.

What significant event occurred in 1976 in Soweto?

A major uprising by school children protesting against the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction.

What was the impact of the Soweto uprising?

It heightened international condemnation of Apartheid and spurred recruitment to the anti-apartheid movements.

What was the role of the United Democratic Front (UDF)?

An umbrella organization formed in 1983 to coordinate grassroots protests against apartheid.

What was the significance of the Rivonia Trial?

A 1964 trial where key ANC leaders, including Nelson Mandela, were sentenced to life imprisonment, which garnered international attention.

What was Botha’s ‘Rubicon’ speech about?

A 1985 speech in which he failed to present significant reforms, causing disappointment among those expecting change.

What did the CODESA negotiations achieve?

The establishment of a framework for a new democratic constitution and a commitment to a multi-racial government.

What were the key outcomes of the 1994 elections in South Africa?

The ANC won 62.5% of the vote, Nelson Mandela became president, and South Africa transitioned to a non-racial democracy.

What does the term ‘Rainbow Nation’ refer to?

A term used to describe post-apartheid South Africa, emphasizing unity and diversity.

What role did the international community play in opposing apartheid?

Imposition of sanctions, cultural and sports boycotts, and widespread condemnation of apartheid policies.