Origins & Early Development (19th Century - 1948)
* Colonial Roots: The seeds of apartheid were sown during British colonialism in South Africa (18th-19th centuries). The system of racial segregation and discrimination was initially based on the "colour bar", which enforced separation of races in public spaces and jobs.
* Early Apartheid Laws: The Union of South Africa was formed in 1910, and early apartheid laws, like the Land Act of 1913, started to restrict the ownership of land by black Africans.
* National Party's Rise: The National Party, a staunchly white supremacist party, rose to power in 1948. This marked the beginning of formal apartheid.
Formal Apartheid (1949-1994)
* Legalization of Apartheid: The National Party implemented a comprehensive system of laws known as apartheid, which literally means "apartness". This legalized racial segregation and discrimination in all aspects of life.
* Classification and Segregation: The population was categorized into racial groups: White, Black, Coloured (mixed race), and Indian. These groups were subject to different laws and restrictions, creating a system of inequality.
* Key Laws:
* Population Registration Act (1950): Classified people into racial groups and mandated carrying identity documents.
* Group Areas Act (1950): Designated separate residential areas for different racial groups, forcing many black Africans to relocate.
* Pass Laws (1952): Black Africans were required to carry passes to move between designated areas.
* Bantu Education Act (1953): Established separate and inferior education systems for black Africans.
* Immorality Act (1950): Prohibited sexual relationships between people of different races.
* International Condemnation: The international community condemned apartheid, imposing sanctions and isolation on South Africa.
* Armed Resistance: Black African resistance movements, such as the African National Congress (ANC), emerged to fight against apartheid through protests, sabotage, and armed struggle.
* Internal Resistance: Despite the risks, many anti-apartheid activists worked within South Africa to challenge the regime.
Transition and Dismantling (1980s - 1994)
* Growing International Pressure: The international community intensified pressure on South Africa, leading to further isolation and sanctions.
* Internal Reform: The South African government began to introduce some reforms, including the release of political prisoners.
* Nelson Mandela's Release: The release of Nelson Mandela, a prominent ANC leader, in 1990 marked a turning point.
* Negotiations for Democracy: The government and the ANC entered into negotiations to establish a multiracial democracy.
* First Multiracial Elections: In 1994, the first multiracial elections were held, resulting in the ANC's victory and the election of Nelson Mandela as South Africa's first black president.
* End of Apartheid: The new government officially ended apartheid and implemented policies to address the legacy of racial discrimination and inequality.
Legacy of Apartheid:
* Continued Inequality: Despite the end of apartheid, South Africa still faces significant challenges related to inequality, poverty, and racial discrimination.
* Reconciliation and Justice: The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to address the injustices of the past and promote reconciliation.
* National Unity: The dismantling of apartheid fostered national unity and promoted a diverse and inclusive society.
It is important to note that this summary is a simplification of a complex and multifaceted history. There are many different perspectives on apartheid, and its legacy continues to be debated.