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Promotion of Bantu Self-Government Act

South Africa [1959]

Quick Summary

The Promotion of Bantu Self-Government Act of 1959 was a key piece of legislation in South Africa's apartheid system. This act established territorial authorities within Black reserves, which were designated as "homelands" or Bantustans for specific ethnic groups.12

The act aimed to segregate the Black population and exclude them from the South African political system. It devolved some powers to these homelands, allowing them a semblance of self-rule, but ultimately placed responsibility for their development and infrastructure on their residents. This policy was part of a broader strategy to reinforce racial segregation and white supremacy in South Africa.321

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