Racism in South Africa was deeply ingrained and institutionalized during the era of apartheid, which lasted from 1948 to 1994. The apartheid system enforced strict racial segregation and discrimination, with white South Africans holding all political, economic, and social power while black South Africans were marginalized and oppressed.
Under apartheid, black South Africans were subjected to a range of discriminatory laws and policies, including forced removals from their homes, restrictions on where they could live and work, and inferior education and healthcare services. They were also denied basic rights such as the right to vote and the right to own property.
The apartheid government also enforced strict laws to prevent interracial relationships and marriages, and interracial couples faced severe social stigma and legal consequences.
Overall, racism in South Africa during the apartheid era was pervasive and deeply entrenched, leading to widespread inequality and injustice for black South Africans. The legacy of apartheid continues to impact South African society today, with ongoing racial tensions and disparities in wealth, education, and opportunity.