21 March 1960
Sharpeville massacre
Police opened fire on anti-pass protesters at Sharpeville, killing and injuring many people.
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political-violence
Police opened fire on anti-pass protesters at Sharpeville, killing and injuring many people.
Significance
Sharpeville intensified domestic repression and drew international attention to apartheid violence.
Why it matters
Sharpeville intensified domestic repression and drew international attention to apartheid violence.
Disputed interpretations
Casualty figures vary by source; this entry avoids fixed totals until source review.