History - Term 4 - Week 5

The Cold War was a period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, lasting from the end of World War II until the early 1990s. This conflict was characterized by ideological battles, military alliances, and proxy wars. In South Africa, the Cold War influenced both domestic and foreign policies, as the country navigated its position between the Western bloc and the Eastern bloc.

During the Cold War, the anti-apartheid movement gained international attention, with various countries and organizations opposing South Africa's racial segregation policies. The United Nations imposed sanctions on South Africa, and many countries supported the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements. This case illustrates how global ideological conflicts influenced local struggles for justice and equality.

Students will examine primary sources such as speeches by Nelson Mandela and documents from the United Nations regarding sanctions against South Africa. In groups, they will discuss how these sources reflect the international response to apartheid and the Cold War context. Each group will present their findings, highlighting the connections between global events and local actions.

Students will choose a specific event or policy from the Cold War era that impacted South Africa, such as the Soweto Uprising or the role of the United States in supporting the apartheid regime. They will conduct research and write a short essay analyzing the event's significance and its broader implications for South African society and politics.

• Capitalism vs. Communism
• Democracy vs. Dictatorship
• Nationalism vs. Globalism
• Socialism vs. Feudalism

Answer: Capitalism vs. Communism

The Cold War was fundamentally about the ideological struggle between capitalist Western nations and communist Eastern nations.

• African Union
• United Nations
• NATO
• Commonwealth of Nations

Answer: United Nations

The United Nations took a strong stance against apartheid and imposed sanctions to pressure the South African government.

Answer: Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was a prominent leader in the anti-apartheid movement and became a symbol of resistance against racial oppression.

• To promote capitalism
• To end apartheid
• To support communism
• To establish a monarchy

Answer: To end apartheid

The ANC aimed to dismantle the apartheid system and establish equal rights for all South Africans.

• The Berlin Wall falling
• The Soweto Uprising
• The Cuban Missile Crisis
• The Vietnam War

Answer: The Soweto Uprising

The Soweto Uprising in 1976 was a significant event that drew international attention to the struggle against apartheid.

Answer: South Africa aligned with Western powers to counteract communist influence, which affected its diplomatic relations.

During the Cold War, South Africa's government sought support from Western nations to maintain its apartheid regime and resist communist movements.