History

The Republic of South Africa is in the very southern part of the African continent and is situated between the Indian ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

The history of South Africa begins in 1948 when the Portuguese Bartolomeu Dias, the first European navigator who circumnavigated the African continent, discovered this land. South Africa was colonised by Britain; that event caused the spread of the English language in the country. Nowadays African English is emerging as a new language. Racial conflict between the white minority and the black majority has played an important role in the country’s history and politics, culminating in apartheid, which was instituted in 1948 by the National Party.

South Africa was the symbol of racial discrimination until 1990, when the black leader of ANC Nelson Mandela, was released after 27 years spent in prison. He won the elections, becoming President of the country.

South Africa divides its governmental power among three capitals: Bloemfontein is the juridical capital, Cape Town is the legislative capital, and Pretoria is the administrative capital. There are also other large and important cities like Johannasburg and Durban.

South Africa was the host nation for the 2010 FIFA word cup. It was the first time the tournament was held in Africa and South Africa was proud to host this important event in their country.

Tommaso B.