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Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika led to the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1989 which had a direct impact on South African politics - NSC History - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 6
Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika led to the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1989 which had a direct impact on South African politics. Do you a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika led to the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1989 which had a direct impact on South African politics - NSC History - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
Introduction
Answer
The disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1989 created significant changes in international politics, including an impact on South Africa. Gorbachev's reforms, Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (restructuring), shifted the global political landscape, influencing the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa.
Step 2
Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika
Answer
Gorbachev's policies aimed to introduce political openness and economic restructuring within the USSR. These reforms weakened the Communist Party's control, which subsequently allowed for greater movements toward democracy in Eastern Europe and had ripple effects worldwide.
Step 3
By the end of 1989 the Soviet Union disintegrated and its impact
Answer
As the Soviet Union disintegrated, many Eastern European countries began to reject communist rule. This decline of communism contributed indirectly to the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa, as nations sought democratic governance inspired by global trends.
Step 4
Political changes in the rest of the world put pressure on the apartheid regime to embark on changes
Answer
The collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe placed the South African government under increasing pressure from both international communities and local advocates. The ANC, no longer reliant on Soviet support, found new opportunities to push for negotiation and reform.
Step 5
FW de Klerk's leadership and the response to change
Answer
FW de Klerk's recognition of political realities resulted in significant policy shifts. The acceptance of negotiations with the ANC demonstrated a pivot away from oppressive practices, showcasing a willingness to re-evaluate South Africa's position in light of global changes.
Step 6
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, I agree with the statement that Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost and Perestroika significantly influenced the disintegration of the Soviet Union, which in turn had a considerable direct impact on South African politics, ultimately facilitating movements towards equity and democracy.