South Africa’s struggle against Apartheid lasted over 40 years. The changes that came about in the early 1990s, were due to the actions of some courageous leaders and thousands of their followers. The methods used to achieve South Africa’s free society varied, but the goal was the same: to end the brutal system of Apartheid.

Archibishop Desmond Tutu was a religious leader during the Apartheid era. Tutu encouraged South Africans to peacefully disobey the laws they found to be unjust. Civil disobedience has been used throughout history. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mohandas Gandhi in India, and, in 2011 the people of Egypt turned to peaceful protest to achieve change.

While oppressive governments often intimidate or imprison those who speak out against them, sometimes free speech is silenced by forcing the outspoken into exile. Banished from her homeland, musician Miriam Makeba had her passport revoked. Hugh Masekela chose to leave South Africa to protest the country’s Apartheid regime. Living abroad for nearly 30 years, both used their music to draw attention to the country’s struggle.

In South Africa, many stayed behind to fight. Those who did risked imprisonment and even death. From Robben Island prison, Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela sent secret messages to the fellow fighters via their wives, Albertina Sisulu and Winnie Mandela.

Today, all of these people along with Oliver Tambo are celebrated as freedom fighters. They are considered liberators of an oppressed people. Whether through non-violent protest, the arts, or armed conflict, each played an important part in the reshaping of South Africa.

Next: Learning about the challenges South Africa faces today.

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