South Africa

The end of apartheid and the ongoing struggles facing South Africa.

What does apartheid mean?

“An official policy (now ended) of racial segregation and white supremacy enforced by the South African government. "Apartheid" means "apartness," separation of the people according to their race. In South Africa it was used to limit the governing power and place of residence of non-white people.”members.tripod.com/~tutor_me/book/glossary.htm

How long has apartheid been in

existence?Apartheid began in 1948 under

the Afrikaner Nationalist PartyApartheid did not end until 1991

when a new constitution was established

In 1994 South Africa had its first fully free election

How did apartheid begin?

Apartheid began after the Afrikaner Nationalist Party took control of the government in 1948.

The Afrikaners believed in white supremacy and developed a “laundry list” of laws dedicated to promoting the white race of South Africa. These laws became known collectively as apartheid.

The end of apartheid

Under global pressure, including an arms embargo, apartheid ended in 1991

The first full election had taken place in 1994.

In general the transition has been peaceful.

Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa under the new constitution.

Currently in South Africa25.5% unemployment

The US is 4.6%Life expectancy 42.19 (down from 46.5 two

years ago)The US is 77.85

Infant mortality rate (per 1000 births) – 22 down from 61 in 2005The US has 6.43 per 1000

What is being done?

South Africa Development FundOriginally developed to help exiles in the struggle for social change, the South Africa Development Fund now works to support communities disadvantaged by decades of apartheid policies.

A segregated beach in South Africa, 1982

St. Augustine Beach, Fl. 1964

Family of Martin Luther King at the funeral- 1968

Son of Steve Biko, pictured at funeral - 1977

Civil Rights Protest in Alabama - 1963Civil Rights Protest in Alabama - 1963

Apartheid Protest in Cape Town South Africa – late 1950’s

Segregated water fountain, North Carolina - 1950

Segregated public facilities in Johannesburg, 1985

"There is no easywalk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through thevalley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach themountaintop of our desires."

  

“Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars…Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that”

Nelson Mandela Martin Luther King Jr.