Daniel Francois Malan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Daniel François Malan
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| 5th Prime Minister of South Africa | |
| In office 4 June 1948 – 30 November 1954 |
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| Monarch | George VI Elizabeth II |
| Governor-General | Gideon Brand van Zyl Ernest George Jansen |
| Preceded by | Jan Smuts |
| Succeeded by | Johannes Gerhardus Strijdom |
| Minister of the Interior | |
| In office 30 June 1924 – 20 May 1933 |
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| Prime Minister | J. B. M. Hertzog |
| Preceded by | Patrick Duncan |
| Succeeded by | Jan Hofmeyr |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 22 May 1874 Riebeek-Wes, Cape Colony |
| Died | 7 February 1959 (aged 84) Stellenbosch, Cape, South Africa |
| Political party | National Party |
Daniel François Malan (born May 22, 1874 – died February 7, 1959) was a very important leader in South Africa. People often called him D.F. Malan. He served as the Prime Minister of South Africa from 1948 to 1954. He was the head of the National Party, a political group that focused on the interests of Afrikaners. During his time as Prime Minister, a system called Apartheid became the official policy of the country.
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Who Was Daniel Malan?
Daniel Malan was born in a small town called Riebeek-Wes in the Cape Colony. This was a part of what is now South Africa. He grew up in a time when South Africa was changing a lot.
Early Life and Education
Malan first studied to become a minister in the Dutch Reformed Church. This is a Christian church that was very important to many Afrikaners. He went to school at the University of Stellenbosch. After finishing his studies, he worked as a minister for several years. This experience helped him learn how to speak to large groups of people. It also taught him how to lead.
Becoming a Politician
Malan decided to enter politics in 1915. He joined the National Party. This party wanted to protect the culture and language of Afrikaners. They also wanted South Africa to be independent from the British Empire. Malan quickly became a strong voice in the party. He was known for his clear speeches and strong beliefs. He served in the South African Parliament for many years. He also held different government jobs, like Minister of the Interior.
Leading South Africa
In 1948, the National Party won the election, and Daniel Malan became the Prime Minister. This was a big moment for South Africa. His government started to put in place a new set of laws. These laws were part of the system called Apartheid.
What Was Apartheid?
Apartheid was a system of laws that separated people based on their race. It meant that different racial groups had different rights and opportunities. White people had the most power and best resources. Black people, Coloured people, and Indian people had fewer rights. They were forced to live in separate areas. They also had separate schools, hospitals, and public places. This system caused a lot of unfairness and suffering for many people. Malan's government believed this separation was necessary for peace. However, it led to much conflict and injustice.
Later Years
Daniel Malan retired from being Prime Minister in 1954. He was 80 years old at the time. He passed away in 1959. Even after he left office, the policies of Apartheid continued in South Africa for many more years. They were finally ended in the early 1990s.
