Frontline Season 6 Episode 5

Frontline Season 6 Episode 5 Apartheid Part 5: 1987

  • December 16, 1987

The Frontline season 6 episode 5 is titled "Apartheid Part 5: 1987." This episode is a continuation of the series that chronicles the apartheid regime in South Africa. The episode covers the events in 1987 when tensions were running high in the country due to the apartheid system.

The episode begins with a focus on the townships where black South Africans reside. It explores how the apartheid system has suppressed and separated those communities from the rest of the country. The show interviews people living in these townships who share their experiences and struggles. They also heard from activists who are fighting against this oppressive regime.

The episode also covers the significant political events that took place in 1987. It elaborates the banishment of Winnie Mandela to a remote town and how her controversial statements sparked outrage in the world. The episode further explores how the apartheid regime responded to protests and outbursts of unrest. The South African military and police brutally suppress protests and arrest political leaders.

The show provides a deep-dive analysis of the apartheid state structure and the mechanisms put in place to segregate society. They explore the education system that ensured black South Africans received an inferior education. The government also restricted their movement by using 'pass laws,' which meant that black people required permission from authorities to travel or work in other regions.

The episode covers how the economic sanctions put in place by the world at large are impacting South Africa. They investigate how the US government's comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act affected American companies operating in South Africa. The response from the South African government to this sanction is also covered.

Throughout this episode, Frontline covers the opinions of activists and political leaders on their thoughts on the apartheid system. The show delves into the different factions that make up the anti-apartheid struggle. They examine some of the divisions that exist within the African National Congress widely regarded as the voice of the people oppressed by apartheid.

The episode concludes with a focus on the future of South Africa. The anti-apartheid movements are gaining momentum, and the South African government is coming under increasing pressure. It remains unclear what the future holds for the country regarding an end to apartheid. Nonetheless, the program provides a refreshing and informative view of the South Africa regime's controversial era, which made its people suffer for decades.

In conclusion, "Apartheid Part 5: 1987" is a detailed and thoughtful episode of Frontline that shares the stories of South Africans caught within the oppressive apartheid regime. It provides insightful coverage of the events of 1987 that led the global community to fight against the regime in South Africa. The episode offers a well-balanced coverage of the differing opinions of political leaders, activists, and ordinary South Africans. It also highlights the challenges that the anti-apartheid movement faces, while also shining a light on the hope that change can bring.

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Description
  • First Aired
    December 16, 1987
  • Language
    English