Internal and external resistance

Summary:

In the 1990s, the National Party government in South Africa faced increasing resistance to the apartheid system, both internally and externally. The 1980s saw a surge in discrimination and repression against Black, Indian, and Coloured people, who continued their struggle for a free and equal South Africa. The government introduced Total Onslaught and Total Strategy strategies, aiming to make people believe communists were using black people to take over the government. In 1983, the constitution was changed to the Tricameral Parliament, allowing Indian and Coloured representation but excluding Black South Africans. This superficial parliamentary system remained a significant obstacle to the apartheid regime.

Internal and External Resistance Introduction

During the 1990s, the National Party government became more aware that it was going to be very difficult to maintain their power through the apartheid system. The National Party and its supporters were determined to keep power. At this time there was increasing resistance to the apartheid regime internally (within the country) and externally (from the international community), as well as certain Cold War events that greatly impacted South Africa. Certain NP leaders, for example, FW de Klerk, knew that in order for South Africa’s overall economic and political survival there needed to change.

Internal Resistance and Repression

Background to the 1980s in South Africa:

The president at this time was PW Botha. The 1980s were turbulent years in South Africa. Black, Indian and Coloured people faced increasing discrimination and repression from the NP Government. Yet, they continued their struggle for a free and equal South Africa - despite the threat of imprisonment or banning. In addition to this, more young white South Africans were becoming more involved in the liberation struggle.

1980's: government under PW Botha introduced Total Onslaught and Total Strategy

- Total Onslaught: A strategy used to make people believe that communists were using black people to take over the government.

- Total Strategy: A justification for pass laws that oppressed black people (repression). The government began strengthening its army to fight protests. They made it compulsory for young white males to join the army for two years. This was known as conscription.

1983: The constitution was changed to the Tricameral Parliament.

This meant that Indian and Coloured people had some, small, representation in government. Black people did not have any representation.

What was the thinking behind this? This was the first of a series of more "democratic changes" (reforms) that the government introduced in response to internal resistance. It was intended to curb opposition to the regime.

What were the results? This was a largely superficial parliamentary system as Indian and Coloured representatives did not have much power. Black South Africans were still totally excluded, and thus resistance continued.