What strategies did the PAC use to oppose apartheid?

The Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) opposed apartheid through armed resistance, political activism, and international lobbying.

The PAC was established in 1959 as a breakaway faction from the African National Congress (ANC), with the aim of opposing apartheid more radically. The PAC's strategies were largely influenced by the philosophy of African nationalism and the belief in the necessity of armed struggle. This led to the formation of the military wing, Poqo, later renamed the Azanian People's Liberation Army (APLA). The APLA conducted guerrilla warfare against the apartheid regime, carrying out attacks on police stations, government buildings, and other symbols of apartheid.

Political activism was another key strategy used by the PAC. They organised protests and strikes to challenge the apartheid laws. The most notable of these was the anti-pass law campaign in 1960, which led to the Sharpeville massacre where 69 black South Africans were killed by police. This event marked a turning point in the struggle against apartheid, leading to increased international attention and condemnation of the apartheid regime.

The PAC also used international lobbying as a strategy to oppose apartheid. They sought to gain support from other African countries and the international community to pressure the South African government to end apartheid. The PAC presented their case to the United Nations and other international forums, highlighting the human rights abuses committed by the apartheid regime. They also sought financial and military support from sympathetic countries to aid their struggle.

In addition, the PAC used education and propaganda to raise awareness about the injustices of apartheid. They published newspapers and pamphlets to disseminate their message and mobilise support. They also established schools in exile to educate young South Africans about their history and the struggle for liberation.

In conclusion, the PAC's strategies to oppose apartheid were multifaceted, involving both violent and non-violent methods. Despite facing significant challenges, including repression by the apartheid regime and internal divisions, the PAC played a crucial role in the struggle against apartheid.