How did the south african government finally decide to end apartheid?

The rapidly changing international situation powerfully influenced these momentous events. The end of the Cold War encouraged the NP to believe that communism was no longer a viable force. At the same time, the collapse of Soviet Communism denied the ANC a major source of material support, thus encouraging the movement to negotiate. The southern African region was also changing. The military defeat of South Africa in Angola had a major impact, undermining the confidence of white South Africans that they could hold on to power indefinitely. The ANC had continuing support from the neighboring "frontline states" and could point to a peaceful transition to independence in Namibia in 1990, which South Africa had illegally occupied since 1946. Moreover, South Africa was under enormous strain due to international financial sanctions and ongoing instability inside the country. To fully explain the remarkable political settlement in South Africa, and to better understand how the country moved forward to build a new democracy, it is necessary to examine the Truth and Reconciliation Commission process.