In about 40 words, explain why Nelson Mandela chose to adopt non‑violent protest after the Sharpeville massacre.
Answer
He realized that armed resistance would invite severe state repression and alienate global opinion; peaceful protest could win broader support and pressure the government to negotiate, aligning with his belief in equality through dialogue.
Step-by-step solution
- Locate the paragraph describing the Sharpeville massacre.
- Observe Mandela’s reaction and the change in strategy mentioned thereafter.
- Identify the reasons given for moving to non‑violent methods.
- Summarise these reasons within the required word limit.
Common mistake: Stating that Mandela was always a proponent of non‑violence, ignoring the shift after Sharpeville.
Concept tested: Shift to non‑violent protest
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
Related questions
- 1 In about 40 words, state why Nelson Mandela accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 as described in the chapter.
- 2 Which statement best reflects Nelson Mandela’s view on forgiveness as described in the chapter?
- 3 Discuss the role of Mandela’s imprisonment in shaping his political ideology, citing at least two specific experiences described in the chapter.
- 4 Why did Nelson Mandela decide to join the African National Congress (ANC) as mentioned in the chapter?
- 5 When was Nelson Mandela released from prison according to the chapter “Long Walk to Freedom”?
- 6 On what exact date was Nelson Mandela released from Victor Verster Prison, marking the beginning of South Africa’s transition to democracy?