Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging

Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging
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Name	Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging
Formation	1973
Founder	Eugène Terre'Blanche
Region	South Africa
Leader	Eugène Terre'Blanche

Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was a South African organization founded by Eugène Terre'Blanche in 1973, with the goal of promoting Afrikaner interests and establishing a Boer-controlled state. The organization was known for its right-wing and separatist ideology, which emphasized the need for Afrikaner self-determination and the creation of a Volkstaat. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was closely tied to the Ossewabrandwag, a Boer organization that opposed British rule in South Africa during World War II. The organization's ideology was also influenced by the Broederbond, a secret society that promoted Afrikaner interests and nationalism.

● History

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was founded in 1973 by Eugène Terre'Blanche, a former South African Police officer and farmer. The organization emerged during a time of great change in South Africa, as the apartheid regime was facing increasing opposition from the African National Congress and other anti-apartheid groups. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging drew support from Afrikaner farmers, workers, and intellectuals who felt that their interests were being threatened by the apartheid regime's policies. The organization was also influenced by the Dutch Reformed Church, which played a significant role in shaping Afrikaner culture and identity. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was closely tied to the Herstigte Nasionale Party, a right-wing political party that opposed the apartheid regime's policies.

● Ideology

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging's ideology was rooted in Afrikaner nationalism and separatism. The organization believed that Afrikaners had the right to self-determination and that they should be able to establish their own Volkstaat. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging also believed in the importance of Afrikaner culture and identity, and sought to promote these values through its activities. The organization was influenced by the ideology of Hendrik Verwoerd, the Prime Minister of South Africa who implemented the apartheid policies. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging also drew inspiration from the Boer republics, such as the Orange Free State and the South African Republic, which were established by Boer settlers in the 19th century. The organization's ideology was also shaped by the works of Afrikaner writers and intellectuals, such as N.P. van Wyk Louw and Uys Krige.

● Organization and Structure

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was organized into a hierarchical structure, with Eugène Terre'Blanche as its leader. The organization had a central committee that made decisions and set policies, and a network of local branches that carried out its activities. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging also had a militia wing, known as the Storm Falcons, which was responsible for the organization's security and defense. The organization was closely tied to the South African Bureau of State Security, which provided it with funding and support. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging also had links to other right-wing organizations, such as the African Resistance Movement and the Ossewabrandwag.

● Activities and Controversies

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was involved in a range of activities, including protests, demonstrations, and militant actions. The organization was known for its violent clashes with anti-apartheid groups, such as the African National Congress and the Pan Africanist Congress. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was also involved in terrorist activities, including bombings and assassinations. The organization's activities were widely condemned by the international community, and it was banned by the South African government in 1994. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was also criticized by human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission. The organization's activities were influenced by the Cold War, and it received support from anti-communist organizations, such as the CIA and the MI6.

● Notable Members and Leaders

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging had a number of notable members and leaders, including Eugène Terre'Blanche, Nicolaas Diederichs, and B.J. Vorster. The organization also had links to other notable Afrikaner leaders, such as Hendrik Verwoerd and Daniel François Malan. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging was also influenced by the ideology of Afrikaner intellectuals, such as N.P. van Wyk Louw and Uys Krige. The organization's leaders were closely tied to the South African government, and many of them held positions of power and influence. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging also had links to other right-wing organizations, such as the National Party and the Herstigte Nasionale Party.

● Legacy and Impact

The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging's legacy is complex and contested. The organization played a significant role in shaping Afrikaner identity and culture, and its ideology continues to influence Afrikaner politics and society. However, the organization's violent and militant activities have also been widely condemned, and its legacy is seen by many as a symbol of racism and oppression. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging's impact can be seen in the works of Afrikaner writers and intellectuals, such as Breyten Breytenbach and André Brink. The organization's legacy is also reflected in the policies of the South African government, which have sought to address the inequalities and injustices of the apartheid era. The Afrikaner Weerstandsbeweging's impact is also evident in the activities of other right-wing organizations, such as the Freedom Front Plus and the Conservative Party.

Category:Afrikaner organizations