The Sharpeville Massacre

The video discusses the Sharpeville massacre on March 21, 1960, in South Africa, where apartheid laws enforced racial segregation. The National Party's policies led to widespread discrimination against Black South Africans. A peaceful protest organized by the Pan African Congress in Sharpeville turned tragic when police opened fire, killing 69 and injuring over 180. The event highlighted the brutality of apartheid, leading to international condemnation and the annual commemoration on March 21 as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

What was the primary purpose of the apartheid laws introduced by the National Party in 1948?

• To promote racial equality

• To segregate and control the population based on race

• To improve economic conditions for all South Africans

• To encourage cultural exchange between different racial groups

What was the main objective of the Pan African Congress's protest in Sharpeville in March 1960?

• To support the National Party's policies

• To celebrate a national holiday

• To peacefully oppose the apartheid pass laws

• To demand better wages for workers

How did the police initially respond to the gathering of protesters in Sharpeville?

• They ignored the protesters

• They joined the protest

• They increased their presence with more police and armored vehicles

• They immediately opened fire

What was the outcome of the police opening fire on the crowd in Sharpeville?

• The protesters retaliated with violence

• Sixty-nine people were killed and over 180 were injured

• A few people were injured

• No one was injured

What international observance is held on March 21st to remember the Sharpeville massacre?

• International Day of Solidarity

• Global Human Rights Day

• International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

• World Peace Day