Rivonia defendants receive life sentences

Ngudle died after being held by the Security Branch. The state claimed suicide; his death became an early symbol of abuse and secrecy in political detention.

Eleven defendants were charged with sabotage and conspiracy following the Liliesleaf raid. The political trial threatened the accused with the death penalty.

Resolution 1899 called on states to stop supplying petroleum, one of the earliest international attempts to use economic pressure against apartheid.

After months of evidence, the prosecution completed its case. The defendants then prepared to explain their political aims and resistance to apartheid.

Speaking from the dock, Mandela described the struggle against white and Black domination and defended the goal of a democratic and free society.

The International Olympic Committee barred the apartheid sports system from the 1964 Games, showing how international sport became a field of anti-apartheid action.

The Criminal Procedure Act doubled the detention period and allowed renewal, deepening the state's capacity to isolate and interrogate political opponents.

Fischer had gone underground while on trial for Communist Party activity. His arrest removed an important strategist and lawyer from active resistance.

The declaration prepared the forced removal of more than 50,000 residents from a diverse Cape Town community under the Group Areas Act.

The United Nations chose the anniversary of Sharpeville to mobilize global opposition to racism and commemorate those killed resisting pass laws.