The coming of democracy in South Africa from 1990 to 1994 marked a major turning point in the history of the country. After decades of oppressive apartheid rule, South Africa was finally able to experience a new era of freedom and equality. This article will explore the end of apartheid, the dawn of democracy, and the lasting legacy of these events.
The End of Apartheid
The end of apartheid in South Africa began in 1990, when the African National Congress (ANC) was unbanned and Nelson Mandela was released from prison. The ANC had been banned since 1960, and Mandela had been imprisoned since 1964. In 1991, the South African government began dismantling the apartheid system. This included the repeal of the Population Registration Act, which had classified people according to race, and the repeal of the Group Areas Act, which had segregated residential areas. In 1993, a new constitution was adopted, which enshrined the rights of all South Africans regardless of race.
The Dawn of Democracy
In 1994, South Africa held its first democratic elections. The ANC won a decisive victory, and Nelson Mandela was elected as the country’s first black president. This marked a major milestone in the country’s history, as it signified the end of the oppressive apartheid system and the beginning of a new era of democracy.
The new government set about rebuilding the country, tackling issues such as poverty, inequality, and racial injustice. In 1996, a new constitution was adopted, which enshrined the rights of all South Africans regardless of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. This was followed by a series of economic reforms, which helped to improve the lives of many South Africans.
The coming of democracy in South Africa from 1990 to 1994 was a major turning point in the country’s history. It marked the end of the oppressive apartheid system, and the beginning of a new era of freedom and equality. The legacy of these events can still be seen today, as South Africa continues to strive towards a more just and equitable society.