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The philosophy of Black Consciousness successfully instilled blacks with pride and self-belief to start challenging apartheid South Africa in the 1970s - English General - NSC History - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 4
The philosophy of Black Consciousness successfully instilled blacks with pride and self-belief to start challenging apartheid South Africa in the 1970s. Do you agre... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The philosophy of Black Consciousness successfully instilled blacks with pride and self-belief to start challenging apartheid South Africa in the 1970s - English General - NSC History - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Agree with the statement and explain the philosophy of Black Consciousness
Answer
The philosophy of Black Consciousness (BC), developed by leaders such as Steve Biko, was pivotal in empowering the black community in apartheid South Africa. It instilled a sense of pride in their black identity, urging individuals to accept themselves and reject the imposed inferiority from the apartheid regime. This philosophy promoted self-reliance and self-confidence, encouraging blacks to articulate their resistance against oppression.
Through community engagement, BC encouraged the formation of political organizations and movements. Notably, the Unity Movement and the formation of groups like the Black People's Convention (BPC) in 1972 galvanized support for challenging the apartheid government. These organizations provided platforms for shared grievances and strategies aimed at dismantling apartheid policies, thus reinforcing the collective identity and pride among blacks.
Additionally, BC influenced the youth significantly, as seen in the actions of black students who formed the South African Students' Organization (SASO). These students organized mass protests, notably the Soweto Uprising of 1976. This event exemplified the shift in consciousness among young blacks who were no longer willing to tolerate systemic oppression, underlining the effectiveness of BC's philosophy in mobilizing masses against apartheid.
Step 2
Historical evidence supporting the argument
Answer
Historical evidence demonstrates that BC played a crucial role in fostering community initiatives and resistance. For instance, BC promoted the establishment of community health clinics and educational programs, like the Zamenhlophe Health Clinic and the Winter School Projects, which empowered blacks by providing vital resources and support systems.
Furthermore, the Soweto Uprising on June 16, 1976, highlighted the culmination of BC influence, where thousands of students protested against the enforcement of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. This uprising, met with violent repression by police, showcased the solidarity among black South Africans and marked a significant turning point in the struggle.
Moreover, the emphasis on collective identity and organizing under BC principles effectively challenged external narratives forcing self-awareness among black South Africans. The initiatives led by youth groups like the Soweto Students Representative Council (SSRC) demonstrated that BC did not only instill pride but also transformed awareness into action, resisting the apartheid state actively.