Apartheid (translated as apartness) was the legal system of racial segregation that existed in South Africa from 1948 to 1991, under which the rights and social freedoms of black South Africans were curtailed and white supremacy maintained. The policy extended colonial segregationist laws and was subsequently maintained as de facto social policy after Apartheid in 1991. On 2 February 1990, shortly before the fall of the Apartheid government, President F. W.
Background on Apartheid
Apartheid was a system of racial segregation that was enforced through legislation by the National Party, which governed South Africa from 1948 to 1994. The country’s white minority ruled over the black majority and sought to maintain their supremacy in all aspects of life. The African National Congress, who fought for equality and civil rights, were deemed illegal by the government and their members faced persecution. In 1990 Nelson Mandela was released from prison after serving 27 years, and negotiations between both parties began.
History Leading Up to the End of Apartheid
Apartheid, the policy and practice of racial segregation enforced by the National Party governments between 1948 and 1994, was a system that categorized all people into four groups: White, Black, Coloured (mixed race), and Asian. Under apartheid, the government could pass legislation which would only apply to certain groups. For example, it could give preferential treatment to white-owned businesses or allow for whites-only universities. These racist laws also led to more than 3 million black people being forcibly relocated from their homes.
Mandela Freed from Prison
On February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela was released from prison. He had spent 27 years of his life incarcerated. On that day, he delivered a speech to the assembled crowds outside the gates of Victor Verster Prison near Paarl. In it, he said: I am happy today! I am very happy!
The International Boycott
In response to the apartheid regime, many people across the world took a stand against it. One example was the international boycott, which was spearheaded by prominent figures like Desmond Tutu. The boycott started in 1968 and sought to stop economic ties with white-owned businesses and companies that did business with South Africa. It also called for an end to sporting events such as golf tournaments that were held there.
1994 General Election Results Announced
In the months leading up to the election, it was clear that the ANC would win by a landslide. The only uncertainty was what margin they would get. There were fears that violence would erupt after such a long period of repression and oppression. When the results were announced on 10 May 1994, there were scenes of jubilation and relief across much of South Africa as it became clear that apartheid had finally ended.
