Apartheid Through the Eyes of South African Political Parties, 1948-1994
Trace the evolution and decline of white minority rule in South Africa
We don’t want Apartheid liberalised. We want it dismantled.former Archbishop of Cape Town
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Apartheid was a system of white minority rule that prevailed in South Africa for much of the 20th century. This collection contains various materials published by political parties on both sides of the racial and ideological divide. The bulk of the documents are drawn from the archives of the main opposition movement, the African National Congress (ANC). The main party of government, the National Party, is also well represented, as are several minor parties and independent candidates.
Content Warning: This collection contains racist or offensive terms. Owing to their historical importance, the sources are in their original state. Please read our Sensitivity Statement for more information.
Contents
Apartheid Through the Eyes of South African Political Parties, 1948-1994...
Trace the evolution and decline of white minority rule in South Africa
Discover
Highlights
Licensed to access Papers relating to the ANC, 1919-1989
The Apartheid regime outlawed the ANC in 1960, arresting many of its leaders, including Nelson Mandela, in the process. These items reveal how the party adapted and ultimately thrived in the face of such trying circumstances.
Licensed to access Papers of the National Party, 1948-1986
The National Party was responsible for establishing and maintaining Apartheid. These policy documents provide an insight into the ideological underpinnings of white minority rule.
Licensed to access Papers of the Progressive Party and the Progressive Federal Party, 1959-1987
The Progressive Party (later the Progressive Federal Party) was the main legal opposition to Apartheid. These materials chronicle the party’s efforts to convince white voters to turn their backs on racial segregation and minority rule.
Licensed to access Papers of the Conservative Party, 1982-1985
The Conservative Party opposed any and all measures to dilute Apartheid during the system’s final decade. These election leaflets provide an overview of their ultimately futile efforts.
Insights
- The papers also show the changing attitudes of white South Africans towards Apartheid.
- Documents published by the ANC and National Party provide a fascinating insight into the two sides of the Apartheid battle.
- The collection highlights how the ANC and its allies successfully lobbied foreign political groups and governments to back their cause.
- Since black and mixed race South Africans were prevented from participating in elections for most of the 20th century, many of the documents focus on extra-parliamentary activism.
