Leaving the Commonwealth and becoming a republic

Question 1

Why did the National Party want South Africa to become a republic?

Answer 1

Did not want Queen Elizabeth to be head of state as it symbolises British imperialism

Question 2

How did Verwoerd use the decision to become a republic to in crease the National Party’s control further?

Answer 2

-Control of the media (predominantly radio (South Africa had no television until 1976 and the NP did not feel they could control the output)
-Placed supporters in influential positions (Dr P.J, Meyer was appointed head of South African Broadcasting Corporation