Apartheid Museum facts for kids
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Pillars of the Constitution
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| Established | November 2001 |
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| Location | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Type | Specialised museum on Apartheid |
The Apartheid Museum is a special place in Johannesburg, South Africa. It helps us understand a very important part of South Africa's past: the time of apartheid. This museum shows what life was like during the 20th century when people were separated based on their race.
The museum first opened its doors in November 2001. It is part of the Gold Reef City area. Several times a year, the museum holds events to celebrate the end of apartheid. These events also mark the beginning of a multiracial democracy in South Africa. This means a country where people of all races can live together and have equal rights.
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The racially-segregated entrance to the museum
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Taxi rank sign in entrance hall
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The Apartheid Museum, 2005
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Expired South African identity card
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The pool of reflection
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Replica of Nelson Mandela Artwork at Apartheid Museum by Marco Cianfanelli
Contents
Exploring the Museum's Stories
The Apartheid Museum has many exhibits. They help visitors learn about the history of apartheid. Each part tells a different story about this difficult time.
The Pillars of South Africa's Values
When you first arrive at the Apartheid Museum, you will see the Pillars of the Constitution. These tall pillars are in the museum's courtyard. Each pillar stands for one of the seven important values found in the South African Constitution. These values are:
- Democracy (everyone has a say)
- Equality (everyone is treated fairly)
- Reconciliation (making peace after conflict)
- Diversity (celebrating differences)
- Responsibility (being accountable)
- Respect (treating others with kindness)
- Freedom (being able to make your own choices)
How Race Was Used to Divide People
The "Race Classification" exhibit shows how apartheid worked. Apartheid was a system that divided people into different racial groups. These groups were called:
- Native (Black South African)
- White (White South Africans)
- Coloured (people of mixed race)
- Asian (Asian South African)
Everyone had identity documents that showed their race. You can see examples of these documents in this exhibit. When you enter the museum, you get a ticket that randomly assigns you to one of two entrances: "white" or "non-white." This helps you experience a small part of how people were separated. The items you see inside the exhibit depend on which entrance you used.
Journeys: People Coming to Johannesburg
As you walk towards the main museum building, you'll find the "Journeys" exhibit. It features large photos of people whose families came to Johannesburg. Many people moved to Johannesburg after gold was discovered there in 1886. These people came from many different backgrounds and races.
Apartheid was designed to keep people of different races apart. In this exhibit, you see the backs of the people in the photos. It's like they are walking in the same direction as you. If you turn around after passing a photo, you can see the person's face.
Understanding Segregation
The "Segregation" exhibit explains the official policy of segregation. This policy became a big part of the Union of South Africa when it was formed in 1910. Under this policy, Black people and white women were not allowed to vote. Segregation was a step that led to the system of apartheid.
