What does apartheid mean?
(ə-pärt'hīt', -hāt')
n.
An official policy of racial segregation formerly practiced in the Republic of South Africa, involving political, legal, and economic discrimination against nonwhites.
A policy or practice of separating or segregating groups.
The condition of being separated from others; segregation.
from answers.com
Apartheid was a system of racial segregation and discrimination that was enforced in South Africa from 1948 to 1994. It was a policy created by the ruling National Party to maintain the dominance of the white minority and limit the rights and freedoms of the non-white population. The word "apartheid" itself is derived from the Afrikaans language and translates to "apartness."
To gain a deeper understanding of what apartheid means, you can follow these steps:
1. Research the historical context: Begin by learning about the historical background of South Africa and the events that led to the implementation of apartheid. This will provide vital context to understand the significance of the system.
2. Study the policies and laws: Familiarize yourself with the specific policies, laws, and regulations that were enacted during the apartheid era. This includes laws such as the Population Registration Act, Group Areas Act, and the Bantu Education Act, among others.
3. Learn about the effects: Explore the impact and consequences of apartheid on various aspects of society, such as employment, education, housing, and healthcare. Understanding the social, economic, and political ramifications will give you insight into the profound injustices experienced by non-white South Africans.
4. Read personal accounts and testimonials: To grasp the human aspect of apartheid, read memoirs, interviews, and personal stories of individuals who lived through this period. This will provide a firsthand perspective on the experiences of those affected by apartheid.
By following these steps, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the meaning and significance of apartheid in South African history.