The National Party dominated the white minority government of South Africa from 1948 to 1994, a period known as the apartheid era.
When did apartheid start and end?
Apartheid, South Africa’s severe, institutionalized system of racial segregation given the Afrikaans word by the white-controlled Nationalist Party in 1948, was eliminated in the early 1990s through a series of acts culminating in the installation of a democratic government in 1994.
Who was to blame for apartheid in South Africa?
From 1958 through 1966, Hendrik Verwoerd, dubbed the “Architect of Apartheid,” was Prime Minister and head of the National Party. He had a key role in establishing how apartheid policies would be implemented.
How was apartheid ended?
Mandela was ultimately released from jail on February 11, 1990, marking the formal commencement of negotiations to end apartheid. After four years of deliberation, Mandela was chosen as president.
What countries backed South Africa during the apartheid era?
The Soviet Union, Tanzania, Zambia, and other countries provided military support to the ANC and PAC. However, because of their economic dependence on South Africa, neighboring countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, and Swaziland found it more difficult.
Why did apartheid begin?
The Great Depression and World War II severely harmed South Africa’s economy, prompting the government to strengthen racial segregation laws. The Afrikaner National Party won the general election in 1948 under the banner of “apartheid.”
