“Mandela played the most significant role in South Africa’s transition to democracy.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement, with which they may agree, partly agree or disagree. The reasons offered may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Although the focus of the question is on the role of Mandela, candidates must also consider other factors. Candidates may refer to Mandela’s role as the respected leader of black South Africans in the negotiations for democracy. His philosophy of peaceful reconciliation and not retribution encouraged co-operation with the white government in democracy negotiations. The decision by De Klerk to release Mandela and work towards democracy, as well as the role of foreign powers which put economic pressure on South Africa, may be considered. Candidates may also discuss the role played by other political figures and political parties in South Africa, as well as the changing attitudes of white South Africans.

This question on Mandela and the transition to democracy produced many strong responses with a clear focus on the topic in the question and knowledge of events and individuals, apart from Mandela, involved in the process of transition. Too many candidates, however, focused their response on Mandela’s entire career from the 1950s and failed to address the topic specified in the question. This approach did not gain good results and seems to be an example of trying to fit prepared responses to the question.