Question

Use the information from the lesson and the reading from the assignment to answer the question: How has the issue of race shaped South Africa’s recent history?

Answer 1

The issue of race in South Africa is an ongoing societal conflict. This conflict seemingly began in the colonial-era when the South African region attracted European attention with its minerals, riches, and resources. This led to areas being governed by both the British and Dutch, who even after the abolishment of slavery in the area, continued to bring in slaves. During the apartheid era, white majority rule was maintained and promoted the separation of whites and people of color (Africans, Indians, and Asians) who were sometimes former slaves. Post-apartheid (apartheid=segregation by race) South Africa’s history still feels the effects of these past issues with the continuing violence, racism, and hate crimes between whites and people of color in the area.

Answer 2

How has the issue of race shaped South Africa’s recent history?

The issue of race has been embedded in the history of South Africa. After the country gained independence, the government of South Africa established a policy of apartheid. Such leaders as Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid. Finally South Africa's 1994 constitution called for social and political equality for all races.

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