apartheid
UK: əˈpɑːtheɪt | US: əˈpɑːrtheɪt
n. A policy or system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race, especially as formerly practiced in South Africa.
The word "apartheid" originates from Afrikaans (a language derived from Dutch), combining "apart" (meaning "separate") and the suffix "-heid" (equivalent to English "-hood" or "-ness"). It literally means "separateness" and was adopted in the 20th century to describe South Africa's institutionalized racial segregation system. The term reflects the Dutch/Afrikaans linguistic influence and the socio-political ideology of enforced racial division.
The apartheid regime in South Africa ended in 1994 with the election of Nelson Mandela.
Many countries imposed sanctions on South Africa during the apartheid era.
The effects of apartheid are still felt in South African society today.
Desmond Tutu was a prominent opponent of apartheid.
Apartheid laws classified people into racial groups with unequal rights.