What is Apartheid?
Apartheid was a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that existed in South Africa from 1948 to 1994. The word ‘apartheid’ is derived from Afrikaans and means ‘apartness’. It was a policy implemented by the National Party government, which aimed to maintain white minority rule and control over the black majority.
Key Features of Apartheid
- Racial Classification: People were classified into racial groups (white, black, colored, and Indian) based on their appearance and ancestry.
- Social Segregation: Separate living areas, education facilities, and public amenities were designated for different racial groups.
- Legal Discrimination: Laws were enacted to restrict the movement, employment, and rights of non-white South Africans.
Examples of Apartheid Laws
Some of the most notorious apartheid laws included the Group Areas Act, which designated different residential areas for different racial groups, and the Pass Laws, which required black South Africans to carry passes at all times to monitor their movements.
Impact of Apartheid
Apartheid had devastating effects on the black population, who were subjected to poverty, limited opportunities, and violence. The system also perpetuated inequality and divided communities along racial lines.
Case Studies
One of the most well-known figures in the fight against apartheid was Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activities before becoming the first black president of South Africa in 1994.
Statistics
According to a report by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, over 21,000 people were killed and 14,000 were tortured during the apartheid era.
