SHARPEVILLE Meaning and
Definition
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Sharpeville refers to a township in the Gauteng province of South Africa, located about 45 kilometers south of Johannesburg. The name "Sharpeville" has become widely recognized and associated with a significant historical event that took place on March 21, 1960: the Sharpeville massacre. The township gained international attention as it became the site of a tragic incident that profoundly impacted the course of South African history.
The Sharpeville massacre occurred when the apartheid regime's police opened fire on a crowd of thousands of people who had gathered in protest against the discriminatory pass laws. This event resulted in the death of 69 people and hundreds of others injured. The tragedy triggered waves of anti-apartheid activism, both within South Africa and globally, leading to escalated resistance against the oppressive regime.
Today, Sharpeville stands as a symbol of the struggle against apartheid and racial injustice in South Africa. The township has become a significant historical landmark, attracting visitors and scholars interested in understanding the country's past and the ongoing pursuit for equality. The memory of the Sharpeville massacre serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought against apartheid and the importance of ensuring a more just and inclusive future for all.
Common Misspellings for SHARPEVILLE
Etymology of SHARPEVILLE
The word Sharpeville comes from the name of a town in South Africa. The town was named after John Lillie Sharpe, a surveyor who worked in the area during the 19th century. The etymology of the name Sharpeville itself is derived from the surname Sharpe and the Old English word tun, which means enclosed land or farmstead.
