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Gorbachev's reforms in the Soviet Union in the 1980s changed the South African political landscape, which influenced FW de Klerk's decision to introduce reforms from 1989 - NSC History - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 6
Gorbachev's reforms in the Soviet Union in the 1980s changed the South African political landscape, which influenced FW de Klerk's decision to introduce reforms from... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Gorbachev's reforms in the Soviet Union in the 1980s changed the South African political landscape, which influenced FW de Klerk's decision to introduce reforms from 1989 - NSC History - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Do you agree with this statement?
Answer
Yes, I agree with the statement that Gorbachev's reforms in the Soviet Union influenced the South African political landscape and subsequently affected FW de Klerk's decision to introduce reforms.
In the 1980s, the Soviet Union, under Gorbachev, implemented significant reforms known as 'Perestroika' and 'Glasnost.' These reforms aimed at revitalizing the Soviet economy and increasing transparency within the government. Perestroika allowed limited market structures and decentralization which, in turn, diminished the strict control of the Communist Party over the economy. Glasnost, on the other hand, opened the door for public criticism and expression, leading to an atmosphere that was less repressive.
As these reforms unfolded, they led to increasing pressure both within the Soviet Union and in its satellite states, highlighting the need for reforms to achieve greater democracy and freedom.
Simultaneously, the global political landscape shifted. The Soviet Union's diminishing support for communist regimes across the world meant that countries like South Africa, which was reliant on this support to maintain the apartheid regime, faced increased isolation. The USSR could no longer financially support the African National Congress (ANC), significantly weakening its position.
This weakening influence of communism globally meant that South Africa was under pressure to negotiate and engage with the ANC, as it was increasingly evident that the apartheid regime could not continue indefinitely without facing dire consequences.
De Klerk, recognizing the changing dynamics, understood that reform was necessary to secure the future of South Africa. The defeat of the SADF at the Battle of Cuito Caunavale in 1988 also highlighted that military dominance was not sustainable. In this context, de Klerk’s willingness to engage with the ANC and dismantle apartheid policies can be seen as a direct response to the influence of Gorbachev’s reforms and the shifting political landscape of the time.
Step 2
Substantiate your answer with relevant historical evidence.
Answer
The following historical evidence substantiates the argument that Gorbachev's reforms played a role in the political changes in South Africa:
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Perestroika and Glasnost: The introduction of these reforms in the Soviet Union encouraged a move away from hardline Communist policies. This shift was emblematic of a broader trend across Eastern Europe, where reform movements began to flourish, leading to the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union.
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Decline of Soviet Influence: By the late 1980s, the Soviet Union’s ability to support communist movements in Southern Africa was in decline. The ANC lost critical funding and support, creating a power vacuum that necessitated negotiation rather than conflict.
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International Pressure: The West, particularly the United States and its allies, began to condition their support of the National Party government on progressive reforms. As the Cold War dynamics shifted, South Africa’s importance as an anti-communist bastion dwindled.
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De Klerk's Reforms: On February 2, 1990, de Klerk announced the unbanning of the ANC and other political organizations, which was a direct response to both the internal and external pressures magnified by the changes in the Soviet Union.
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Negotiations with the ANC: The move to negotiate with the ANC was fundamentally a strategic choice aligning with the global trend towards democratization and reform, influenced heavily by the changes initiated by Gorbachev.
In conclusion, the intersection of Gorbachev's reforms and their resultant impact on global politics played a significant role in prompting FW de Klerk to initiate the much-needed reforms in South Africa.