The government was oppressive
Between 1948 and 1994, at least 21,000 people were killed for political reasons in South Africa.
In the 1700’s, most Western European countries were engaged in Imperialism; the British and the Dutch colonized South Africa. The discovery of diamonds and gold in the 1800’s led to the Boer War (1899-1902) between Britain and the Dutch settlers in South Africa (the Boers).
Imperialism, greed, and racism led to increasing oppression of the black majority by the white minority. South Africa gained independence from Britain and continued to oppress the black majority.
Apartheid became law in 1948. Among other things, apartheid meant separate neighborhoods, educational systems, restaurants, businesses, and transportation for whites and non-whites.
When non-whites (like Gandhi or Nelson Mandela) resisted these oppressive laws, the government jailed them, beat them, tortured them, or killed them.
The resistance was non-violent
The major leaders used non-violence to resist the oppression. People protested, wrote articles, published pamphlets, talked to the press, talked to the government officials, formed organizations, had meetings, petitioned foreign governments, raised money, and performed acts of non-violent, civil disobedience.
To deal with the protests, the government would declare a state of emergency. This led to further civil rights abuses and violence. Nevertheless, the people still responded with non-violence.
How outsiders helped
Other countries helped to end the oppression by isolating South Africa. Many countries publicly condemned the oppression. In addition, some countries imposed economic sanctions against the government.
Non-violence kept the peace
Because of persistent non-violent action, progressives like President de Klerk abolished the apartheid laws. In 1994, South Africa had its first fair election.
Because South Africa broke away from oppression with non-violence, it continues to believe in non-violence today. South Africa formed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It helps to heal the wounds left by 50 years of apartheid without causing more deaths.
