Johannesburg

Johannesburg, one of the largest cities in South Africa, was founded on October 4, 1886, following the discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand. This event marked the beginning of a rapid settlement as prospectors flocked to the area. Over time, Johannesburg would grow into a major urban center, fueled by its mining industry. The city evolved from tented camps and makeshift buildings to a bustling metropolis. This foundational moment is central to Johannesburg's identity as it catalyzed economic development and urbanization in the region.

During the Second Boer War, British forces under the command of Field Marshal Lord Roberts captured Johannesburg on May 31, 1900. This was a significant event as Johannesburg was a major strategic and economic center due to its gold resources. The capture allowed the British to control the city's valuable resources and marked a turning point in the war, showcasing British military power and influence in the war against the Boer republics.

The University of the Witwatersrand, often referred to as Wits University, was established on August 14, 1928, in Johannesburg. It became one of South Africa's leading educational institutions, advancing research and scholarship across various disciplines. The university has played a crucial role in the cultural and academic development of Johannesburg, contributing significantly to the country's intellectual landscape and fostering many prominent figures who would impact South African society.

Following the 1948 national election in South Africa, the National Party implemented apartheid, a systematic policy of racial segregation and discrimination. This had profound implications for Johannesburg, intensifying segregation in residential areas, education, public spaces, and employment. The Group Areas Act led to forced removals, disrupting communities and altering the urban landscape. Johannesburg became a central site of apartheid resistance, as activists and organizations mobilized against the oppressive system.

On August 9, 1956, over 20,000 women of all races marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest the pass laws under apartheid. This march, although taking place in Pretoria, involved many women from Johannesburg and was organized by iconic leaders from the city. The event is commemorated every year as National Women's Day in South Africa, highlighting the crucial role women from Johannesburg played in the resistance against apartheid and the struggle for freedom and equality.

On June 16, 1976, students in the Soweto township of Johannesburg led a protest against the apartheid government's mandate to use Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. This peaceful protest turned violent when police opened fire, sparking widespread riots across South Africa. The Soweto Uprising marked a significant turning point in the struggle against apartheid, drawing international attention to the brutalities of the South African regime and galvanizing further resistance movements both locally and globally.

While the release of Nelson Mandela took place in Cape Town on February 11, 1990, its effects were profoundly felt in Johannesburg, where Mandela would later make several important speeches. His release marked the beginning of the end of apartheid and the start of a democratic transition in South Africa. Johannesburg, as the economic hub, saw increased political activity, with Mandela's presence galvanizing both the ANC and the country's populace towards the goals of freedom and democracy.

April 27, 1994, marks the day of South Africa's first democratic elections, allowing people of all races to vote. Johannesburg served as a focal point during this historic event, witnessing celebrations and a dramatic shift in the political landscape. The elections concluded the apartheid regime and began a new chapter of democracy, with Nelson Mandela becoming the first black president. Johannesburg experienced changes reflecting newfound freedoms and the challenges of transformation in a post-apartheid era.

Johannesburg hosted the final match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup at Soccer City stadium on July 11, 2010. This was the first time the World Cup was held on African soil, representing a significant achievement and honor for South Africa and Johannesburg. The event was a momentous occasion, showcasing Johannesburg to a global audience and promoting unity and enthusiasm among its citizens and visitors. Spain won their first World Cup by defeating the Netherlands in a closely contested match.

The world gathered in Johannesburg for the memorial service of Nelson Mandela on December 10, 2013, at FNB Stadium. Attended by numerous heads of state and thousands of people, the service was a tribute to Mandela's legacy and achievements. Johannesburg, reflecting its role as a key city in Mandela's life and South African politics, became a focal point for mourning and celebration of the life of a man who contributed enormously to the fight for equality and justice.