Black Consciousness Movement

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

American journalist noted in 1971 that “white nationalism has entrenched itself more firmly than ever, chances of a successful black revolt seem to have grown more distant since 1960.” A new challenge to white supremacy emerged in the form of BCM

Question 2

Aims

Answer 2

1. Transform minds of black people.
2. Change their awareness of and their attitudes to their situation with apartheid.
3. Build up people pride in being black so they no longer felt inferior.

Question 3

Who was Steve Biko

Answer 3

One of the central figures of the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO) and Black people’s convention (BPC).

Question 4

Death of Steve Biko

Answer 4

Arrested 4 times between 75-77. August 76 he was arrested and held in solitary confinement for 101 days b4 released. His last arrest in 77 was at a road block on his way home from illegal meeting. Brutally interrogated, chained to a grille and assaulted = brain damage. Died 4 weeks later on 12 September. Minister of Justice Kimmy Kruger claimed Biko died due to a hunger strike. Official inquest reported he died because of a ‘prison accident’.

Question 5

Culture of BCM

Answer 5

Gave rise to new black theatre , poetry and music:
* Magazines published by radical BCM writers
* New black poets.
* New black theatre groups
* Shebeens (illegal bars) in townships provided for jazz musicians to play their music to black audeinces.