QUESTION 6: THE END OF THE COLD WAR AND A NEW WORLD ORDER: THE EVENTS OF 1989 The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 led political enemies, the National Party and the African National Congress, to begin talks - NSC History - Question 6 - 2019 - Paper 2

To address the statement, it is crucial to understand the broader context surrounding the fall of the Berlin Wall and its implications for South Africa.

Introduction

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a pivotal moment that influenced various global political dynamics, including South Africa. This event was significant in leading political enemies, the National Party and the African National Congress (ANC), to initiate discussions that would eventually reshape the country's future.

Arguments Supporting the Statement

1. Impact of Glasnost and Perestroika: The reforms initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in the Soviet Union, such as Glasnost and Perestroika, fostered a climate that encouraged political change, influencing the ANC’s strategies as they sought to negotiate for a democratic future.
2. The End of the Soviet Support: The decline of the USSR's influence meant that the National Party could no longer justify its policies under the threat of communism. It led to a reevaluation of their stance towards the ANC.
3. Urgency for Negotiation: The National Party recognized that reform was necessary to maintain legitimacy, especially as violent uprisings became more common in the late 1980s.
4. Capture of International Attention: The global condemnation of apartheid, coupled with the fall of the Berlin Wall, placed pressure on the National Party to begin negotiations, highlighting the need for political change.

Arguments Against the Statement

While evidence supports that the fall of the Berlin Wall facilitated discussions, it is also important to consider other factors that played a role in South Africa's transition:

1. Internal Resistance: The persistent resistance movements within South Africa, such as the growing influence of the ANC and mass protests, created an environment where the National Party had no choice but to engage in dialogue.
2. Economic Strain: South Africa was facing severe economic issues, which were further exacerbated by sanctions and boycotts from the international community. Thus, the National Party's engagement in negotiations was driven by the need to alleviate economic hardships, irrespective of external events like the fall of the Berlin Wall.
3. Influence of Internal Leaders: Key figures within the National Party recognized that apartheid was untenable, leading them to push for talks with the ANC even before the full ramifications of the Berlin Wall were felt in the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while I largely agree with the statement that the fall of the Berlin Wall prompted discussions between the National Party and the ANC, it is essential to attribute equal significance to the internal pressures and economic factors that necessitated such negotiations. Historical evidence clearly supports the multifaceted nature of South Africa’s political evolution during this time.