Grade 8 History Term 1 Test PDF: Facts in South Africa
Introduction
South Africa has a rich and complex history, marked by both triumphs and challenges. This test is designed to assess your understanding of key events and concepts in South African history from the earliest times to the end of the 19th century.
Section 1: The Early Years
Who were the first people to inhabit South Africa?
- The San and Khoi peoples
What was the name of the first European to round the Cape of Good Hope?
- Bartolomeu Dias
When was the first permanent European settlement established in South Africa?
- 1652
Who founded the Cape Colony?
- Jan van Riebeeck
What was the main purpose of the Cape Colony?
- To provide a refreshment station for ships traveling to and from the East Indies
Section 2: The Expansion of European Settlement
What was the Great Trek?
- A mass migration of Dutch settlers (Boers) from the Cape Colony into the interior of South Africa
Why did the Boers leave the Cape Colony?
- Dissatisfaction with British rule and policies
What were the Boer Republics?
- Independent states established by the Boers in the interior
What was the significance of the discovery of diamonds and gold in South Africa?
- Led to a massive influx of immigrants and fueled economic growth
What was the impact of the discovery of diamonds and gold on the indigenous population?
- Displacement and exploitation
Section 3: The Anglo-Boer Wars
What were the causes of the Anglo-Boer Wars?
- Tensions between British and Boer settlers over land, resources, and political control
When was the First Anglo-Boer War fought?
- 1880-1881
What was the outcome of the First Anglo-Boer War?
- A British victory, but with significant Boer resistance
When was the Second Anglo-Boer War fought?
- 1899-1902
What was the outcome of the Second Anglo-Boer War?
- A British victory, leading to the establishment of the Union of South Africa
Section 4: The Union of South Africa
When was the Union of South Africa established?
- 1910
What were the main provisions of the Act of Union?
- United the four British colonies of Cape Colony, Natal, Transvaal, and Orange River Colony
- Established a bicameral parliament and a prime minister
Who was the first Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa?
- Louis Botha
What were the main challenges facing the Union of South Africa?
- Racial segregation and discrimination
- Economic inequality
- Political instability
What was the significance of the 1913 Land Act?
- Reserved 87% of land for white ownership, dispossessing many black South Africans
Conclusion
This test has covered key facts and events in South African history from the earliest times to the end of the 19th century. By understanding these events, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex and fascinating history of this nation.