In what year did South Africa declare itself a republic, leaving the British Commonwealth?

South Africa declared itself a republic in 1961, marking a significant shift in its political landscape. This event was formalized through a national referendum held in October 1960, where a majority of voters supported the establishment of a republic. As a result, on May 31, 1961, South Africa officially became a republic and left the British Commonwealth. This transition was part of a broader movement towards asserting national sovereignty and independence from colonial influences. The timing is critical; thus, the choice of 1961 directly corresponds to the official declaration and the significant political changes that followed.