Robben Island becomes a prison for political prisoners

Dag Hammarskjöld reported that talks with South Africa had failed to produce a mutually acceptable arrangement on racial policy, underscoring the government's refusal to change course.

Reeves, an outspoken critic who documented the Sharpeville killings, resigned as Anglican Bishop of Johannesburg after the government prevented his return.

Facing criticism from Commonwealth leaders over apartheid, Verwoerd withdrew South Africa's application to remain after becoming a republic.

About 1,400 delegates from many bodies demanded a national convention elected by all adults. Nelson Mandela was chosen to coordinate action through the National Action Council.

After a trial lasting more than four years, the remaining defendants were found not guilty. The judgment was a major defeat for the state's attempt to criminalize the Congress movement.

The law permitted twelve-day detention without bail and criminalized prohibited gatherings, strengthening the state's tools against political organizing.

The ANC-organized action opposed the establishment of a white republic without democratic participation by the Black majority. Large numbers of workers stayed home despite intimidation.

South Africa became a republic and left the Commonwealth. A nationwide stay-at-home challenged a constitutional change made without consent of the Black majority.

Applied retrospectively to 21 March 1960, the act protected the government and its agents from legal responsibility for violence and torture carried out in official duties.

After peaceful political activity was outlawed and repressed, MK announced itself through attacks on state installations. Its early strategy sought to avoid loss of life.