What were the main forms of armed resistance used by the Anti-Apartheid Movement?

The main forms of armed resistance used by the Anti-Apartheid Movement in South Africa were guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and armed protests.

One of the most prominent armed resistance groups was Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), which was the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). MK was formed in 1961 and carried out various acts of sabotage against government institutions, infrastructure, and symbols of apartheid. Their aim was to disrupt the functioning of the apartheid regime and draw international attention to the injustices of the system.

Sabotage was a key tactic employed by the Anti-Apartheid Movement. MK members targeted power stations, government buildings, and transportation networks, aiming to disrupt the apartheid government's control and create economic instability. These acts of sabotage were often carried out at night to minimize casualties and were intended to send a message to the apartheid regime that their rule was not secure.

Additionally, armed protests and uprisings were another form of resistance used by the Anti-Apartheid Movement. The Soweto Uprising in 1976, for example, saw thousands of students taking to the streets to protest against the compulsory use of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in schools. The protests turned violent as police responded with force, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. This event marked a turning point in the anti-apartheid struggle, as it galvanized international support and brought attention to the brutalities of the apartheid regime.

It is important to note that while armed resistance played a significant role in the struggle against apartheid, it was not the only form of resistance. Non-violent protests, civil disobedience, international pressure, and diplomatic efforts were also crucial in dismantling the apartheid system. The Anti-Apartheid Movement utilized a combination of strategies to challenge and ultimately overcome apartheid, leading to the eventual democratic transformation of South Africa.