Part 8/11:

The Effects of Internal Strife

By the late 1970s, the situation in the region became increasingly dire. In South Africa, widespread unrest erupted following the 1976 Soweto uprisings, where students protested against oppressive educational policies. These protests evolved into nationwide riots, much to the surprise of white South Africans who were largely unaware of the extent of black discontent.

Simultaneously, the white minority government in South Africa found itself surrounded by a growing tide of opposition. Attempts at diplomacy in Rhodesia faltered, leading to one last surge in violence as black leaders united to continue the fight for independence. By now, it was clear that white minority rule was unsustainable, and the specter of civil war loomed ever closer.