key term - African National Congress (ANC)

Definition

The African National Congress (ANC) is a political party in South Africa that was founded in 1912 to increase the rights of the black population and oppose racial discrimination under apartheid. It became the leading force in the anti-apartheid movement, advocating for equality and justice, eventually playing a crucial role in establishing a democratic South Africa in 1994. The ANC symbolizes both resistance to colonial rule and global movements for civil rights and freedom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ANC was initially formed as a response to the 1910 Union of South Africa, which marginalized black citizens and imposed discriminatory laws.
2. The ANC adopted the Freedom Charter in 1955, outlining its vision for a non-racial South Africa and serving as a foundational document for future resistance efforts.
3. In the 1960s, the ANC shifted towards armed struggle against apartheid, leading to its designation as a terrorist organization by the South African government.
4. The ANC's efforts gained international support during the 1980s, contributing to global anti-apartheid movements that pressured the South African government to reform.
5. After decades of struggle, the ANC successfully led negotiations to end apartheid, culminating in the first multiracial elections in 1994, where Nelson Mandela was elected president.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the ANC reflect broader global trends of resistance against colonialism and racial oppression?
  • The formation of the ANC in 1912 aligned with global trends of anti-colonial movements, where colonized nations sought independence and civil rights. The ANC's focus on fighting racial discrimination paralleled similar movements worldwide, such as India's struggle for independence from British rule. This connection shows how local actions against colonial powers were influenced by global ideas of self-determination and equality.
• Evaluate the role of Nelson Mandela within the ANC and how his leadership impacted the anti-apartheid movement.
  • Nelson Mandela's leadership was pivotal for the ANC and the broader anti-apartheid movement. His commitment to non-violent resistance initially and later strategic armed struggle mobilized support within South Africa and internationally. Mandela's imprisonment drew global attention to apartheid's injustices, making him a symbol of resilience. His eventual release and election as president in 1994 highlighted how effective leadership can unite a movement and create change.
• Assess the long-term effects of the ANC's actions on South African society and governance following the end of apartheid.
  • The ANC's actions fundamentally transformed South African society post-apartheid, establishing a democratic framework that promoted human rights and equality. Their governance introduced policies aimed at redressing past inequalities through land reform, education initiatives, and social programs. However, challenges such as corruption within the party and ongoing socioeconomic disparities indicate that while significant progress was made, the legacy of apartheid still influences contemporary South Africa's political landscape.

Related terms

Apartheid:

A system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the South African government from 1948 until the early 1990s.

Nelson Mandela:

A prominent leader of the ANC who became the first black president of South Africa after spending 27 years in prison for his anti-apartheid activities.

Black Consciousness Movement: A grassroots movement that emerged in South Africa during the late 1960s, promoting black identity and challenging apartheid through psychological empowerment and activism.