Apartheid, a term derived from the Afrikaans word meaning 'apartness', was a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa that lasted from 1948 to 1994. This policy was enacted by the National Party government, who believed in white supremacy and the separation of racial groups. Under Apartheid, the country's population was classified into four racial groups: White, Black, Colored, and Indian. Each group had different rights, with the white minority enjoying the most privileges and the black majority suffering the worst conditions. The system was maintained through oppressive laws and brutal force, causing immense suffering and sparking international outrage. One of the significant figures who fought against Apartheid was Nelson Mandela. Mandela, a member of the African National Congress, was imprisoned for 27 years for his anti-apartheid activities. His release in 1990 marked the beginning of the end of Apartheid. In 1994, the first democratic elections where all races could vote were held, symbolizing the end of the Apartheid era. The legacy of Apartheid is still visible in South Africa today, with significant disparities in wealth and opportunities between racial groups. However, the country continuously strives to reconcile and heal from this painful chapter in its history.