Apartheid

Apartheid, an Afrikaans term that translates literally as "apartness," was the law of the land in South Africa from 1948 until 1990.

History of apartheid

Reforming apartheid

The impetus to reform apartheid stemmed from a resurgence of labor unrest and antiapartheid protest activity during the 1970s.

In response to these developments, in 1977, the government appointed the Commission of Inquiry into Labour Legislation, more commonly known as the Wiehahn Commission. Soon afterwards, a second commission, the Commission of Inquiry into the Utilization of Manpower, or Riekert Commission, was appointed.

The end of apartheid

On February 2, 1990, President F.W. de Klerk announced that his government would begin negotiations with representatives of the various racial communities in South Africa to produce a new, egalitarian constitution. In the same speech, he announced Nelson Mandela's release from prison and the legalization of banned and restricted organizations.

Repeal of apartheid policies

The government began repealing apartheid with its October 15 passage of the Discriminatory Legislation Regarding Public Amenities Repeal Act of 1990.

Apartheid legislation

Prohibition of Mixed Marriages Act (1949): This law made it illegal for whites to marry non-whites.

Population Registration Act (1950): This law provided for the establishment of a national population registry and required that all South Africans be registered as either "a white person, a coloured person or a native."

Group Areas Act (1950): This law required people to live in areas designated for their racial group.

Suppression of Communism Act (1950): This law empowered the government to ban subversive publications, organizations, and individuals.