In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
Oliver TamboRead
The violence associated with the A.N.C. is minimal, infinitesimal next to the violence of the apartheid regime.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes that the violence committed by the African National Congress (A.N.C.) is insignificant compared to the brutality of apartheid.
Oliver Tambo's quote highlights the severe disparity in the level of violence perpetrated by the apartheid regime in South Africa compared to that of the African National Congress. It suggests that while any violence is regrettable, the context of systemic oppression and violence under apartheid renders the A.N.C.'s resistance response minimal in comparison. This statement is a call for understanding the broader historical situation and the justifications for the actions taken by those fighting against an oppressive regime.
Themes
ViolenceApartheidResistanceA.N.C.OppressionJustice
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech addressing the history of social justice movements.
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The sanctions will not kill us. It's apartheid that's killing us.
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How do you deal with a criminal that will not listen to what you have to say and who continues his policy of violence? Some say you continue to talk and let him tire himself out. But nearly 40 years after the institution of apartheid, is there anyone who still believes that verbal persuasion will work?
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The U.S. is the last country that should see itself as an ally of the apartheid system.
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It was of limited usefulness to head great rallies. The government did not listen, and, soon enough, the tear gas and the muzzles of the guns were turned against the people. The justice of our cries went unrecognized.
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