Critically discuss how Steve Biko and the philosophy of Black Consciousness mobilised black South Africans to challenge the apartheid government in the 1960s and 1970s. - NSC History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 2

In the wake of the banning of major political parties like the ANC and PAC in 1960, a political vacuum emerged. This context allowed Biko's philosophy to take root, as many black South Africans sought self-definition and empowerment in a landscape where leadership was suppressed.

Biko's philosophy emphasised self-acceptance, self-confidence, and an understanding of one's own identity. It encouraged individuals to reject the debilitating effects of apartheid, fostering a collective identity that empowered the oppressed. This was crucial in mobilising black South Africans to take a stand against the regime.

In 1968, black students formed the South African Students' Organisation (SASO), embracing Biko's ideas. SASO played a significant role in advocating for Black Consciousness and uniting students to challenge the apartheid system through various forms of activism.

Biko's influence extended to community organisations. Initiatives like the Black People’s Convention (BPC) were established, promoting grassroots mobilization. Biko and his supporters worked with groups such as the Black Allied Workers Union (BAWU) to raise awareness and support local struggles against apartheid.

The culmination of Biko's ideology and activism led to crucial events such as the Soweto Uprising in 1976. The protest of thousands of students against the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction showcased the awakening of political consciousness among black South Africans, influenced heavily by the principles Biko championed.

Through his philosophy of Black Consciousness, Steve Biko significantly mobilised black South Africans to challenge the apartheid government. His legacy persists as a symbol of resistance and empowerment, illustrating the potential of collective identity in the struggle for freedom.