Document 7
this is an excerpt from a pamphlet on the racial situation in the union of south africa. it sets out the general
principles of apartheid established by the national party in 1948.
… the party [national party] therefore undertakes to protect the white race properly and
effectively against any policy, doctrine or attack which might undermine or threaten its
continued existence. at the same time the party rejects any policy of oppression and
exploitation of the non-europeans by the europeans as being in conflict with the christian
basis of our national life and irreconcilable with our policy.
the party believes that a definite policy of separation (apartheid) between the white races
and the non-white racial groups, and the application of the policy of separation also in the
case of the non-white racial groups, is the only basis on which the character and future of
each race can be protected and safeguarded and on which each race can be guided so as to
develop his own national character, aptitude and calling.…
source: national party, “the national party’s colour policy,” march 29, 1948
according to this excerpt from this national party pamphlet, what was one way the national party justified
its racial policy?