Afrikanerism meaning

Afrikanerism definitions

Afrikanerism is a cultural and political ideology that originated in South Africa, particularly among the Afrikaner ethnic group. This ideology is deeply rooted in the history and traditions of the Afrikaner people, who are primarily of Dutch, German, and French Huguenot descent.

Language plays a significant role in Afrikanerism, with Afrikaans being the primary language of the Afrikaner people. Afrikaans developed from Dutch and is spoken by the majority of Afrikaners, serving as a symbol of cultural pride and identity.

History

Afrikanerism emerged during the 19th century as Afrikaners sought to assert their identity and push back against British colonial rule in South Africa. This led to events such as the Great Trek, where Afrikaner farmers moved inland to escape British control.

During the 20th century, Afrikanerism became closely associated with apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. Afrikaner nationalists implemented apartheid policies to maintain white minority rule and preserve Afrikaner cultural and political dominance.

Cultural Identity

Afrikanerism is deeply intertwined with the cultural identity of the Afrikaner people, encompassing aspects such as language, religion, and heritage. Afrikaners often view themselves as a distinct cultural group with a unique history and set of traditions.

Voortrekker monuments, Afrikaans literature, and Calvinist religious beliefs are all integral parts of Afrikaner culture and identity. These cultural elements have been used to promote a sense of unity and pride among Afrikaners, particularly during times of political upheaval.

Legacy

While apartheid officially ended in the early 1990s, the legacy of Afrikanerism continues to influence South African society. Afrikaner cultural institutions, political parties, and historical narratives still play a role in shaping public discourse and political debates in the country.

Despite its complex history and associations with apartheid, Afrikanerism remains an important cultural and political force in South Africa, representing the enduring influence of the Afrikaner people and their contributions to the nation's development.

Afrikanerism Examples

1. The Afrikanerism "braai" refers to a South African barbecue.
2. He used the Afrikanerism "lekker" to describe the delicious meal.
3. She greeted everyone with the Afrikanerism "howzit" meaning "how's it going".
4. The Afrikanerism "boerewors" is a traditional South African sausage.
5. They shared stories around the campfire, using the Afrikanerism "gesels" for chatting.
6. The Afrikanerism "bakkie" is commonly used in South Africa to refer to a pickup truck.
7. He used the Afrikanerism "ouma" to affectionately refer to his grandmother.
8. The Afrikanerism "robot" is used for traffic lights in South Africa.
9. They enjoyed a glass of "koeksister" - an Afrikaner treat made of fried dough soaked in syrup.
10. The Afrikanerism "jol" is used to describe a fun or lively social event.

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