Intro to the Mineral Revolution, p. 2-5 Flashcards
How did the Mineral revolution begin?
It began with the discovery of diamonds in Kimberley in 1867 and the discovery of gold deep underground on the Witwatersrand in 1886.
What changes occurred during the Mineral Revolution?
International banks made cash and credit readily available to local farmers, miners and prospectors and in turn placed growing demands for land and labour on the local African populations. It changed South Africa from an agricultural society to the largest gold-producing country in the world.
Where were diamonds discovered?
In the Northern Cape.
Who eventually laid claim to the Northern Cape?
The Griquas.
Who was the leader of the Griquas?
Nicolaas Waterboer
How did the British lay claim to the Northern Cape, even though it was under Griquas control?
The leader of the Griquas, Nicolaas Waterboer, found it was very difficult to control the area with the amount of prospectors who moved to the area, therefore he gave it to British administration.
How much money did the British pay the Orange Free State in compensation as they had refused to give up their claim?
90 000 pounds
Why did the African miners choose to get their wages in cash?
- Buy guns
- Buy farming equipment
- Pay “lobola”
What was the accommodation like for the black workers?
In 1876, the black workers were houses separately from the white workers.
How did the mine owners keep their mining costs down?
- They used the system of migrant labour to ensure a steady flow of workers
- They paid the workers as little as possible
- They kept the mine workers in close compounds
What were the conditions like in the compounds?
It was unsanitary, cramped, inhabitable, inhumane, food and water rations, no rights. If they would try to leave, they would be punished.
