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It was intense pressure from international anti-apartheid organisations that led to the political transformation in South Africa - NSC History - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 4
It was intense pressure from international anti-apartheid organisations that led to the political transformation in South Africa. Critically discuss this statement ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:It was intense pressure from international anti-apartheid organisations that led to the political transformation in South Africa - NSC History - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Reasons for the intense pressure from the Anti-Apartheid Movement (AAM) in the 1970s and 1980s
Answer
The intense pressure from the AAM was primarily a response to the systemic injustices of the apartheid regime. The formation of the International Anti-Apartheid Movement (IAAM) in the 1980s played a crucial role in galvanizing international support. The AAM organized various campaigns, informed by a moral imperative to challenge racial segregation and inequality, thereby creating significant pressure on the South African government.
Step 2
Sport Boycotts
Answer
In 1981, New Zealand's cricket tour of South Africa sparked significant protests, embodying the widespread international condemnation of apartheid. Sport Boycotts, led by organizations such as the South African Council on Sport (SACOS), were a critical form of resistance. The slogan 'No normal sport in an abnormal society' became emblematic of the movement, and by the late 1980s, South Africa found itself excluded from 90% of world sport.
Step 3
Cultural Boycotts
Answer
Cultural boycotts were another significant form of resistance. International artists, such as those affiliated with Artists United Against Apartheid, refused to perform in South Africa. Campaigns like these raised awareness and solidarity, exemplifying the role of culture in resisting oppression. For instance, a performance in London drew an audience of 250,000, amplifying the message of anti-apartheid movements.
Step 4
Academic Boycotts
Answer
Scholarly boycotts also played a critical part in the international pressure against apartheid. Various academic institutions refused to collaborate with South African universities, denying them access to vital research funding. The refusal to grant visas for South African scholars further isolated the regime, pressuring it to reform.
Step 5
Sanctions
Answer
The imposition of sanctions, grounded in the Sullivan Principle from the 1980s, further pressured the South African government. Major US companies, such as General Electric and IBM, withdrew investments. In 1986, the US Congress passed legislation that banned new investments in South Africa. The economic ramifications were profound, leading the rand to devalue significantly and intensifying calls for transformation.
Step 6
Conclusion
Answer
In summary, the various forms of resistance from international anti-apartheid organizations, including sport boycotts, cultural efforts, academic restrictions, and economic sanctions, created a critical momentum against apartheid. These combined pressures fostered a global environment that ultimately contributed to the political transformation in South Africa.