What ideology heavily influenced the anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa by the 1980s?

The anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa during the 1980s was significantly influenced by socialism, which emphasized equality, social justice, and collective action against oppressive regimes. Socialism aligned well with the goals of the movement, as it sought to address the vast inequalities present in South Africa due to the racially discriminatory policies of Apartheid. The Alliance between the African National Congress (ANC) and various socialist parties highlighted this alignment, as many leaders were influenced by Marxist ideas that promoted the dismantling of oppressive systems and redistribution of resources.

The influence of socialism was evident through protests, labor strikes, and the push for universal suffrage. Furthermore, anti-Apartheid activists often drew on socialist critiques of capitalism, arguing that the economic exploitation present in Apartheid South Africa was a critical component of the broader system of oppression. This ideological underpinning galvanized both local and international support, turning the struggle against Apartheid into a broader fight for human rights, social equity, and justice.

While nationalism also played a significant role in the anti-Apartheid movement by fostering a sense of identity and unity among oppressed groups, it was the socialist critique of systematic inequality that provided a more comprehensive framework for activists. Other ideologies like capitalism and fascism fundamentally did