Apartheid is a term that is commonly associated with South Africa and is often used to describe the system of racial segregation that was in place in the country from 1948 until the early 1990s. However, the term has a broader meaning that extends beyond South Africa and has been used to describe similar systems of segregation and discrimination in other parts of the world. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of apartheid, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
Apartheid is a term that originated in South Africa and is derived from the Afrikaans word meaning “separateness” or “apartness.” The term was used to describe the system of racial segregation and discrimination that was in place in South Africa from 1948 until the early 1990s. Under apartheid, people were classified into racial groups (white, black, coloured, and Indian) and were subjected to different laws and treatment based on their race.
Origin
The system of apartheid was introduced in South Africa by the National Party, which came to power in 1948. The party’s leaders believed in the superiority of the white race and sought to maintain white dominance over the country’s black majority. Apartheid laws were enacted to enforce racial segregation and discrimination in all aspects of life, including education, housing, employment, and public services.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The Oxford English Dictionary defines apartheid as “a policy or system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “racial segregation; specifically: a former policy of segregation and political and economic discrimination against non-European groups in the Republic of South Africa.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a political system in South Africa from 1948 until 1994 that separated people according to race and treated black people unfairly.”
Associations
Apartheid is often associated with South Africa and the struggle against racial segregation and discrimination. The system of apartheid was widely condemned by the international community, and many countries imposed economic sanctions on South Africa to pressure the government to end apartheid. The struggle against apartheid was led by Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists, and eventually led to the dismantling of the system in the early 1990s.
Synonyms
Synonyms of apartheid include segregation, discrimination, racism, and bigotry.
Antonyms
Antonyms of apartheid include integration, equality, inclusivity, and diversity.
The same root words
The word apartheid is derived from the Afrikaans word “apart,” which means “separate” or “apart.” The same root word is found in other languages, including Dutch and German.
Example Sentences
- The system of apartheid in South Africa was a gross violation of human rights.
- The struggle against apartheid was a long and difficult one, but ultimately successful.
- Many people suffered under apartheid, including those who were forcibly removed from their homes and communities.
- Apartheid was a shameful chapter in South Africa’s history, but it is important to remember it so that we can learn from it and ensure that such injustices are never repeated.