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Explain to what extent the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 paved the way for the National Party and the African National Congress to begin talks - NSC History - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 6
Explain to what extent the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 paved the way for the National Party and the African National Congress to begin talks. Substantiate your ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain to what extent the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 paved the way for the National Party and the African National Congress to begin talks - NSC History - Question 6 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Introduction: Explain the significance of the Berlin Wall's fall
Answer
The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 marked a crucial turning point in global politics, symbolizing the collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe. This event not only demonstrated the failure of the Soviet Union to maintain control but also instigated broader discussions on democracy and reform worldwide. In the South African context, it significantly influenced the dynamics between the National Party (NP) and the African National Congress (ANC) by creating a conducive environment for dialogue.
Step 2
The impact of the Soviet Union's collapse
Answer
The disintegration of the Soviet Union, alongside the fall of the Berlin Wall, meant that communism no longer posed a viable threat to the Western world. Thus, the NP recognized that dialogue with the ANC was essential to transition away from apartheid, particularly in light of rising global pressures for democratic reforms and the need for national reconciliation.
Step 3
External support for negotiations
Answer
With the end of the Cold War, external support for both the NP and the ANC emerged, creating an atmosphere in which negotiations became imperative. The desire for stability in the region prompted international players to encourage discussions between these parties. Each side began to see negotiations as a viable alternative to violence.
Step 4
Regional tensions and the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale
Answer
The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale in 1987-1988 highlighted the need for the NP to engage in talks with the ANC. This conflict not only destabilized southern Africa but also underscored that continued military engagement was unsustainable. The NP started to realize that maintaining apartheid was not the solution to South Africa's problems.
Step 5
Conclusion: Summarize the path to negotiations
Answer
In conclusion, the fall of the Berlin Wall significantly paved the way for discussions between the National Party and the African National Congress. It emphasized the necessity of dialogue in the face of changing global dynamics, leading to eventual negotiations that transformed South Africa's political landscape. The events of 1989 were pivotal in establishing a foundation for future talks, enabling a peaceful resolution to the apartheid era.