Apartheid

Apartheid was a law in South Africa from 1948 to 1994. The word means 'apartness' in a language called Afrikaans. It kept white people and Black people apart. Black people had fewer rights and were treated unfairly. Many brave people fought to end apartheid.

Unfair Rules

Under apartheid, Black and white people had to live in different areas. They used different schools, hospitals, and even park benches. Black people could not vote or hold good jobs. The white government had all the power even though most people were Black.

A sad old sign showing unfair rules that kept people apart.
A sad old sign showing unfair rules that kept people apart. (Guinnog / Wikimedia Commons)

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was a leader who fought against apartheid. He was put in prison for 27 years because of his work. After he was released, he became the first Black president of South Africa in 1994. He helped bring peace to the country.

Important Facts

  • Nelson Mandela won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
  • The first free election in South Africa was in 1994, and people waited in huge lines to vote.
  • Many countries around the world stopped trading with South Africa to protest apartheid.

Did You Know?

Nelson Mandela's birthday, July 18, is now celebrated as Mandela Day around the world.