Resource Library

South Africa

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Mandela’s South Africa: Why Democracy Won

By Craig Charney | Insights | Series II | No. 1 | December 2013

This April 1994 New York Times op-ed argued that the social movements, common identities, and shared values of South Africans boded well for the nascent post-Apartheid South African democracy. With the recent passing of Nelson Mandela, we are reminded not only of his importance, but also the importance of all South Africans, who overcame anger and fear to establish their Rainbow Nation.

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Black South Africans Defy Prophets of Doom

By Michael Hill | The Baltimore Sun | February 12, 1995 | 3 pages

This article offers a discussion of a study about political expectations of South Africa’s black population. A systemic study has found a politically sophisticated population that understands the limitations of government instead of a country that is full of unrealistic expectations.

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Voices of a New Democracy – CPS Focus Group Report

Report | November 1, 1994 | 83 pages

This report documents African expectations in the new South Africa, following the nation’s transition to majority rule. The findings of the project, though relatively small-scale, reveal in-depth assessments of urban and rural opinions. Overall sentiments show realistic yet hopeful expectations with a desire for a political culture of inclusion.

South Africa Findings of a Survey – IRI Poll

Report | November 1, 1994 | 82 pages

This report details South African national sentiment months after President Nelson Mandela’s historic inauguration. The findings outline the national mood and priorities, especially towards reconstruction and development programs, housing, social issues, economic policy, politics, traditional leaders, and the 1994 elections.

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South Africa: Campaign and Election Report

Report | October 1, 1994 | 285 pages

This report outlines the political environment in South Africa soon after South Africa’s first nonracial election and discusses the ways in which this election tested all typical transitional political and administrative challenges to the limit. The election was a historic first step achievement towards liberation and a nonracial society, and although it reflected the will of the majority of South Africans, the final numerical results of the election did not accurately represent the precise number of votes cast for each party.

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Democracy Won

By Craig Charney | The New York Times | April 27, 1994 | 3 pages

This article discusses the potential implications of South Africa’s first multi-racial elections. Who will win this election, more importantly, what will that mean for the country. It seems democracy has already gained the first point.