T1 M13 Negotiations Flashcards
When did Nelson Mandela seek negotiations with the South African government, and what was his main goal?
Nelson Mandela sought negotiations with the South African government from around 1985 onwards. His main goal was to work towards a peaceful settlement of the apartheid conflict
What was P.W. Botha’s response to Mandela’s request for negotiations, and what condition did he impose on Mandela’s release?
Botha offered Mandela a conditional release, which required Mandela to renounce the armed struggle. Mandela refused to comply with this condition.
In 1988, what significant development took place regarding Mandela’s meetings with the government, and how did it facilitate negotiations?
In 1988, a special government committee was established, and it held a total of 47 meetings with Mandela. Mandela was moved to Victor Verster Prison, where he could receive visitors and negotiate more effectively.
When and under what circumstances did a secret meeting between Mandela and P.W. Botha take place, and what was the outcome?
On July 5, 1989, Botha agreed to a secret meeting with Mandela. Although the meeting was not hostile, it did not lead to any significant decisions.
What event led to the start of negotiations?
Mandela writing to Kobie Coetsee requesting a meeting with President P.W. Botha.
When was Nelson Mandela released from Victor Verster Prison?
Nelson Mandela was released on Sunday, February 11, 1990.
What were the key circumstances that created space for negotiations to take place in South Africa?
The circumstances that set the stage for negotiations included the following:
Gorbachev’s reforms in the Soviet Union, which diminished the NP’s ability to claim they were protecting South Africa against a communist threat.
Settlement of the Namibian conflict, with an agreement on Namibia’s independence reached in March 1990.
Economic sanctions and disinvestment, which resulted in a significant financial crisis in South Africa.
