Johannesburg history witnessed the changing socio-political condition of this part of the world. It dates back to the Stone Age and the Iron Age.
Johannesburg history dates back to the pre-historic period, when it was inhabited by hunters and food gatherers. Bushmen, who were mainly food gatherers and hunters, were the early settlers of Johannesburg. They are known to have settled here during the Stone Age.
Witwatersrand Gold Rush
Witwatersrand gold rush is an important chapter in the history of Johannesburg. After the discovery of gold in 1886, a large number of people from across the world settled in Johannesburg. Natives from the different parts of Africa came to Johannesburg to work in the gold fields.
After the discovery of gold, the government of Transvaal established Johannesburg, which became the largest South African settlement in the subsequent years. In the following year, a number of mining companies took over the gold mines of Johannesburg and created huge fortunes for themselves.
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This led to the clashes between mine barons, who were English-speaking newcomers, and the Boer government of Transvaal. After the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1901), the British took over the territory.
Apartheid in Johannesburg
The endeavor of the British government to relocate the natives led to racial separation, which came to be known as Apartheid in the history of the world. With the passage of time, the rift between the British and the natives deepened even further. In 1920, about 70,000 natives rose in revolt against the mine owners. This revolt culminated in the 'Rand Revolt' in the year 1922 that led to the death of about 200 people.
During the Second World War, there was a greater influx of nativees into Johannesburg. This led to the beginning of the black nationalist movement. A student protest that took place on 16th June 1976, triggered the nationalist sentiment of the natives. The socio-political scenario of Johannesburg continued to be tensed until the 'Eighties'. Supported by international sanctions, Apartheid was abolished in the last decade of the 20th century. First democratic elections in Johannesburg started in 1994.
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