The influence of WW2: the ANC after 1940 (3) Flashcards
What influence did WW2 have on African Nationalism?
It had an important impact on the development of African nationalism, both in South Africa and Africa.
Why did WW2 have such an important impact on African Nationalism?
Allied war propaganda claimed that the war was being fought for freedom and democracy, and this encouraged Africans to hope that the post-war record would see an end to discrimination and oppression everywhere.
Who became president of the ANC in 1940?
Dr. Alfred Xuma
How did Dr. Alfred Xuma revive the ANC?
He gave the ANC a new sense of purpose through his strong active style of leadership. He wanted to co-operate with colored and Indian leaders to present a united front against discrimination.
What was the Atlantic Charter?
The Atlantic Charter, outlined US and UK aims for the world. no territorial aggrandizement; no territorial changes made against the wishes of the people (self-determination); restoration of self-government to those deprived of it; reduction of trade restrictions; global cooperation to secure better economic and social conditions for all; freedom from fear and want; freedom of the seas; and abandonment of the use of force, as well as disarmament of aggressor nations.
What aims did the Atlantic Charter entail? (6)
- No territorial aggrandizement;
- No territorial changes made against the wishes of the people (self-determination);
- Restoration of self-government to those deprived of it;
- Reduction of trade restrictions;
- Global cooperation to secure better economic and social conditions for all;
- Abandonment of the use of force,
What did the ANC do upon the releasing of the Atlantic Charter?
The ANC set up a committee to study the implications of the Atlantic Charter for Africa.
What did the ANC do in response to the Atlantic Charter? (after studying it)
The ANC in 1943 drew up a document called “African Claims in South Africa” which called for votes for all adults; a fair distribution of land, the right for Africans to own land in urban areas; and an end to discrimination in the workplace. (Same full citizenship rights as Europeans)
In 1943 younger members of the ANC formed the Congress____ ___ (CYL), with ____ ___ as its first president, and _____, ____, and _____ as members.
Youth League Anton Lembede Nelson Mandela Walter Sisulu Oliver Tambo
Why were their reasons for forming the Youth League?
They accused ANC leaders of representing the elite and being out of touch with the masses. They wanted to overcome the conservative attitude of older members of the ANC and turn it into a more active nationalist organization that would take lead in bringing about change for South Africans of all classes and races.
How many black South Africans had volunteered to serve in the war?
125 000
Why had the government not give them any positions with firearms and gave them positions such as drivers, cooks, orderlies, etc. ?
The government feared that giving military training to black soldiers might under white domination in South Africa.
What did service in the war for black South Africans highlight?
The differences between their lack of political rights at home, and the Allied war aims of fighting for democracy.
Why did black South Africans feel their war efforts had been undervalued?
They had hoped for changes in attitude in South Africa after the war, however many were disappointed when this did not happen, and felt their contributions to South Africa’s war effort had been undervalued.
What type of nationalism emerged within the ANC after the National Party came to power in 1948?
A more determined form of nationalism emerged.
