The following was a political impact of the Great Depression on South Africa.
The introduction of apartheid.
The formation of the African National Congress Youth League.
The formation of the Union of South Africa
The formation of the United South Africa National Party.
The correct political impact of the Great Depression on South Africa is:
- The formation of the United South Africa National Party.
The Great Depression, which began in 1929 and lasted throughout the 1930s, had a significant impact on South Africa's political landscape. One of the key political outcomes was the formation of the United South Africa National Party.
As a result of the economic downturn, there was a rise in nationalism and a desire for protectionist policies to safeguard South African industries. The United Party, which was formed in 1934 through a merger of the South African Party and National Party, represented the interests of English-speaking whites and advocated for protective tariffs and economic self-sufficiency.
The United South Africa National Party played a crucial role in shaping South African politics during the Great Depression and beyond. They remained in power until 1948 when the National Party, led by Daniel François Malan, won the general elections and introduced the apartheid system. Thus, while the Great Depression indirectly contributed to the formation of apartheid, it was the National Party's victory in the elections after the Great Depression that led to its implementation.
The political impact of the Great Depression on South Africa includes the following:
1. The introduction of apartheid: The Great Depression exacerbated existing racial tensions in South Africa and led to increased discrimination against non-white communities. In response, the government implemented stricter segregation policies, leading to the formal establishment of apartheid in 1948.
2. The formation of the African National Congress Youth League: In the midst of the economic crisis, the African National Congress (ANC) recognized the need for a new generation of leaders who would fight for social and political change. In 1944, the ANC Youth League was formed, with key members such as Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo. This marked a significant shift in the ANC's approach and laid the groundwork for the anti-apartheid movement.
3. The formation of the Union of South Africa: The Union of South Africa was established in 1910 as a self-governing state within the British Empire. Although not directly caused by the Great Depression, the country's political structure influenced its response to the economic crisis. The Union government implemented measures to protect white workers and industries, contributing to the wider social and economic inequalities in the country.
4. The formation of the United South Africa National Party: The United South Africa National Party (USANP) was formed in 1934 through the merger of various right-wing political groups. The party capitalized on white fears and economic concerns during the Great Depression, appealing to nationalist sentiments and eventually gaining power in the late 1940s. The USANP would become the driving force behind the formal implementation of apartheid policies.
It is worth noting that while the Great Depression had a significant impact on South Africa's political landscape, there were other factors at play as well. Political, social, and economic developments during this period were influenced by a complex interplay of domestic and international factors.