Britain, Diamond Mining And Increasing Labiur Control Flashcards
(22 cards)
What revolution is referred to as the Mineral Revolution in South Africa?
The industrial revolution in South Africa
What was the impact of diamond discovery in South Africa?
It created a need for labor
Why did Africans work for cash during the diamond mining era?
To buy guns, farming tools, and pay lobola
What are migrant workers?
Individuals who leave rural areas to work in cities for extended periods
In what year did diamond mining companies begin housing black workers separately from white diggers?
1876
What were the living conditions like for black workers in diamond mining?
Terrible; not enough food and shelter
What illness did workers commonly die from during cold winters?
Pneumonia
What is a compound in the context of diamond mining?
A building that housed black mine workers
Fill in the blank: The discovery of _______ created a need for labor in South Africa.
diamonds
True or False: Migrant workers often stayed in rural areas for long periods.
False
What was one reason black workers were housed separately in 1876?
Racial segregation policies
What happened in 1884 related to white miners?
In 1884, white miners protested, resulting in 6 being shot dead.
What was a common practice for workers leaving the mines?
Workers were often strip-searched and given a laxative to discourage swallowing diamonds.
How long did workers remain in the compound after contracts?
Workers remained in the compound for 8 days after contracts ended.
What was the purpose of the closed compound system?
The closed compound system was used to confine black workers for 3-6 months.
What did companies realize about workers’ living conditions?
Companies realized they needed to improve workers’ living conditions to improve productivity.
What restrictions were placed on workers in the compounds?
Workers could not leave the compound and only needed to be searched once at the end of their contract.
What was a significant change in 1885 regarding mining operations?
In 1885, large mines used closed compounds built on mining sites.
What was restricted in closed compounds?
Freedom of black workers were restricted
What was the living conditions in a compound?
Compounds were cramped, surrounded by wire fencing and had surveillance towers
What were the benefits of living in a compound?
Compounds provided food, shelter, Healthcare, and they were taught to read and write.
What supplies did the compounds provide?
supplies such as blankets, shoes and clothing were reasonably priced.
