Two Pivotal Moments in South African History
A Comparison Across Five Decades
Height of apartheid under National Party government
Post-apartheid democracy under ANC-led government
Secret headquarters for anti-apartheid activities
Active mining operation site
No gunfire No deaths during raid
34 killed 70+ injured
• Walter Sisulu
• Govan Mbeki
• Ahmed Kathrada
(Nelson Mandela already imprisoned but linked)
Represented by AMCU (Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union)
Led to Rivonia Trial (Oct 1963–Jun 1964)
Defendants sentenced to life imprisonment for sabotage
Followed days of escalating tension and prior violence
Plans for guerrilla warfare and sabotage against the regime
• Low wages
• Poor living conditions
• Union rivalries in mining sector
Symbolized apartheid state's crackdown on dissent
Revealed failures in post-apartheid labor relations
Often compared to apartheid-era Sharpeville massacre
The Marikana massacre occurred at a platinum mine in Marikana, South Africa, that was owned and operated by Lonmin Plc, a British mining company. At the time of the 2012 incident, Lonmin was a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange, with significant shareholders including institutions and investors, but no single dominant individual owner. Cyril Ramaphosa, who later became South Africa's president, served as a non-executive director on Lonmin's board during the strike and massacre, and he faced criticism for his communications with police and government officials amid the events. In 2019, Lonmin was acquired by Sibanye-Stillwater, a South African mining firm, but this was well after the 2012 massacre.