Gold Mining in South Africa

Set of vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes about the history and impact of gold mining in South Africa.

Witwatersrand

A region in South Africa where gold was discovered in 1886, leading to significant economic changes.

Randlords

Powerful mining capitalists who invested in deep-level mines during the late 19th century.

Silicosis

A lung disease caused by the inhalation of silica dust, common among miners.

Chamber of Mines

An organization formed by Randlords to protect their interests and profits in the mining industry.

Migrant workers

Workers who travel far from their homes to work, particularly in mines in South Africa.

Hut Tax

A tax exclusively imposed on black men for the huts they lived in.

Head Tax

A tax levied on all adult men, regardless of employment status.

Labour Tax

A tax that required unregistered black men to pay if they were not employed.

Deep-level mining

Mining that occurs deep underground, requiring significant investment and labor.

Migrant labour system

A labor system that forced black South Africans to work away from their homes, often under harsh conditions.

Disintegration of family structures

A breakdown of traditional family roles and structures, exacerbated by economic pressures from mining.

Beautiful

One of the characteristics of gold that contributes to its perceived value.

Rare

A characteristic indicating that gold is not commonly found, enhancing its value.

Inflation

A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money, tied to the need for gold backed currencies.

Protective clothing

Clothing intended to protect miners from hazardous conditions, which was often not provided.

Living conditions

The environment in which miners lived, generally characterized by hardship and lack of freedom.