EARL’S WORLD—8

Approaching South Africa. One of the most beautiful harbors in the world is Capetown and approaching it from the sea is spectacular. It is a natural harbor at the base of Table Mountain and the ship is tied up so close to the heart of the city no transportation is needed to visit the malls or restaurants. Most of the students are heading for safaris.

Capetown is populated by more ethnic groups than any city we’ll visit: Blacks, Colored. Afrikanos, Whites, Dutch, Germans, and Asian Indians make up the Rainbow Coalition. The South African flag is designed with multiple colors to reflect this diversity.

The abolishment of apartheid was as daunting a task as was the abolishment of slavery in the United States. Apartheid laws created by a white society keep blacks disenfranchised for generations. Under these laws Nelson Mandela was imprisoned on Robben Island for 27 years. He was released by President De Clerk in 1990 and became head of the ANC. African National Congress. A general election was held and he was elected President. Mandela became and international hero, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

Under Mandela’s presidency a new constitution was adopted and a break down of the walls of segregation began. He pushed through a five year reconciliation plan, appointed a white majority Supreme Court and released many political prisoners. It is factual that he was able to get the new government launched with some success.