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Ruth First and Joe Slovo: Their Enduring Legacy in the Struggle Against Apartheid

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Ruth First And Joe Slovo, Two Prominent Anti Apartheid Activists In South Africa Ruth First And Joe Slovo In The War Against Apartheid

Ruth First and Joe Slovo in the War Against Apartheid

by Alan Wieder

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Ruth First and Joe Slovo were two of the most prominent anti-apartheid activists in South Africa. Their unwavering commitment to the fight for justice and equality, despite the risks and hardships they faced, is an inspiration to all who believe in a better world.

This article explores their lives and their legacy, highlighting their courage, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of non-violent resistance.

Early Lives and Activism

Ruth First was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1925. She became involved in politics at a young age, joining the Communist Party of South Africa (CPSA) in 1940. In 1946, she married Joe Slovo, a fellow CPSA member.

Joe Slovo was born in Lithuania in 1926. He emigrated to South Africa with his family in 1935. He joined the CPSA in 1942 and quickly rose through the ranks.

First and Slovo were both active in the anti-apartheid movement from the early 1950s. They were involved in the Defiance Campaign of 1952 and the Congress of the People in 1955.

The Rivonia Trial and Exile

In 1963, First and Slovo were arrested and charged with treason in the Rivonia Trial. They were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, they were released in 1989 after 25 years in prison.

After their release, First and Slovo went into exile in Mozambique. They continued to work for the anti-apartheid movement from abroad.

Assassination of Ruth First

In 1982, Ruth First was assassinated by a parcel bomb sent to her office in Maputo, Mozambique. She was 57 years old.

The assassination of Ruth First was a major blow to the anti-apartheid movement. She was a brilliant writer and strategist, and her death was a great loss.

Legacy

Ruth First and Joe Slovo were two of the most important figures in the anti-apartheid movement. Their courage, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of non-violent resistance inspired millions of people around the world.

Their legacy continues to live on today. Their work helped to bring about the end of apartheid in South Africa, and their ideas continue to inspire activists around the world who are fighting for justice and equality.

Ruth First and Joe Slovo were remarkable individuals who dedicated their lives to the fight against apartheid. Their courage, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of non-violent resistance are an inspiration to all who believe in a better world.

Their legacy continues to live on today, and their work continues to inspire activists around the world who are fighting for justice and equality.

Ruth First and Joe Slovo in the War Against Apartheid

by Alan Wieder

4.8 out of 5