CIVIL RESISTANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA: 1970s TO 1980s 'The international anti-apartheid movements call for boycotts, disinvestment and sanctions contributed significantly towards the downfall of the apartheid regime in South Africa in the 1980s.' Do you agree with the statement? Substantiate your answer with relevant historical evidence. - NSC History - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 2

The various forms of protests significantly contributed to the fall of apartheid. The Anti-Apartheid Movement (AAM) in Britain effectively mobilized public opinion against the South African government, promoting comprehensive boycotts and disinvestment campaigns that isolated South Africa internationally.

These movements pressured institutions to withdraw from investments in South Africa, which in turn weakened the economic foundation of the apartheid state.

Sanctions imposed by foreign nations greatly impacted South Africa's economy. For instance, major companies, such as Chase Manhattan Bank, cut ties, and in the mid-1980s, the U.S. government banned all new loans. These sanctions and divestments led to increased unemployment and poverty, further intensifying local resistance against the apartheid regime.

Cultural boycotts, particularly from British and American artists, prevented South Africa from participating in international cultural events, further isolating the nation. Likewise, academic boycotts barred South African scholars from engaging with global academic communities, creating a knowledge gap that hindered the regime's legitimacy.

In conclusion, the international anti-apartheid movements, through sanctions, disinvestment, and cultural boycotts, did significantly contribute to the downfall of the apartheid regime. The combination of economic pressure and diminished international standing paved the way for internal resistance movements to gain momentum, ultimately leading to the end of apartheid in the early 1990s.