December 20 has been a day of notable significance in South Africa’s rich and multifaceted history.
Five historical events that happened on 20 December
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South Africa’s history is rich and multifaceted, reflecting a journey through times of conflict, change, and resilience. 20 December marks several important events in this journey, each contributing to the nation’s complex historical tapestry.
This report delves into five such events, highlighting their significance and impact.
1. 1900 – Establishment of Concentration Camps During the Anglo-Boer War
On this day in 1900, a grim chapter in the Anglo-Boer War unfolded as Lord Kitchener proposed the establishment of concentration camps. These camps were primarily aimed at confining African women and children.
This strategy was part of the British response to the Boer guerrilla warfare and had profound humanitarian implications. It led to severe suffering and high mortality rates among the camp inmates, marking a dark period in South African history.
2. 1988 – Petition for Racial Integration in Sports
In a significant push towards racial equality, 20 December 1988, witnessed a notable event in the realm of sports. The Sowetan newspaper reported on a petition, signed by 30 000 White South Africans, advocating for the integration of all races in sports grounds.
This petition, presented to then-state president PW Botha, was a reflection of the growing discontent with apartheid policies and a step towards dismantling racial barriers in sports, mirroring the broader societal calls for equality.
3. 1941 – Marriage of John Vorster
This date also marks a personal milestone for Balthasar Johannes (John) Vorster, who later became the prime minister and president of South Africa.
Vorster married Martinie Steyn Malan in Worcester. His tenure as a national leader was marked by a complex and controversial political career during the apartheid era.
4. 2004 – Tragic Road Accident of Mike Mtakati’s Family
A tragic event occurred on 20 December 2004, when Mike Mtakati, the corporate communications group manager for Anglo Platinum, and his family were involved in a fatal road accident. This incident, which resulted in the loss of Mtakati, his wife, their four children, and their nieces, cast a sombre shadow on this date and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding road safety in South Africa.
5. 1991 – Beginning of the CODESA Talks
A pivotal moment in the country’s march towards democracy was the commencement of the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) meetings on this day in 1991.
These talks were instrumental in ending apartheid and setting the stage for a new constitutional order in South Africa.
The CODESA negotiations involved a wide array of political parties and movements, laying the groundwork for the nation’s first democratic elections in 1994.