Explain how the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989 contributed to the political changes that occurred in South Africa - NSC History - Question 6 - 2017 - Paper 2

The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolized the end of an era marked by ideological confrontation. This event resonated in South Africa, where the anti-apartheid movement gained momentum as apartheid's justifications wavered globally.

The collapse of the USSR sent shockwaves through global political structures, causing African nationalist movements to seek new paths to power. The African National Congress (ANC), previously reliant on Soviet support, found itself needing to adapt. With diminished external support from the USSR, the ANC sought to negotiate from a position of strength and moved towards a peaceful transition.

Western powers, influenced by the collapse of the USSR, became more engaged in resolving South Africa's conflicts. The National Party, struggling to justify its continued rule, faced pressure to cease apartheid. Amidst these changes, influential interim governments began to realize that maintaining a system favorable to the capitalist development required reconciliation rather than oppression.

In summary, the Soviet Union's collapse was a catalyst for political transformation in South Africa, as it altered ideological alignments and weakened apartheid's foundation. The culmination of these factors fostered an environment where the end of apartheid became not only possible but necessary for peaceful coexistence in the region.