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Why did Apartheid policies persist for so long in South Africa, and how were they eventually abolished?

Edwardo Markovich

Apartheid policies in South Africa were a form of institutionalized racism that were promoted by the country's ruling white minority for many years. These policies were designed to effectively segregate the black population from the white population and limit their access to political power, economic resources, and basic human rights.

One reason why apartheid persisted for so long in South Africa is because it was highly profitable for the white ruling class. The exploitation of black labor and the discrimination against black citizens allowed white South Africans to maintain a high standard of living while simultaneously suppressing the black population.

Furthermore, apartheid policies were also enforced through a system of violence and repression. The government made use of police brutality, detention without trial, and censorship to silence dissent and maintain control over the black population. This made it difficult for opposition movements to gain traction and challenge the status quo.

However, despite these challenges, apartheid policies were eventually abolished thanks to the tireless efforts of anti-apartheid activists both within South Africa and abroad. These activists used a variety of tactics to highlight the injustices of apartheid, including peaceful protests, boycotts, and international pressure.

One of the most notable figures in the struggle against apartheid was Nelson Mandela. Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his activism and later became South Africa's first black president following the end of apartheid. His leadership and determination played a key role in ending apartheid policies.

Overall, the persistence of apartheid in South Africa can be attributed to the greed and power-hunger of the white ruling class, as well as their use of violence and repression to maintain their grip on power. However, the eventual abolition of apartheid highlights the power of grassroots activism and the importance of standing up for what is right in the face of injustice.