Step-by-step explanation:
The negotiations between the African National Congress (ANC) and the National Party of South Africa were a crucial part of the transition from apartheid to democracy in South Africa. These negotiations involved various formal and informal talks, which were aimed at ending the racial segregation and discrimination that had been institutionalized by the apartheid system.
The first informal talks between the ANC and the National Party were held in the early 1980s, when Nelson Mandela was still in prison. These talks were facilitated by a group of religious leaders and were focused on ending the violence that had erupted in the townships. However, the talks did not result in any significant breakthroughs.
In 1985, the National Party government announced its intention to negotiate with the ANC. This led to a series of secret meetings between representatives of the two organizations, which were held in various locations around the world. These talks were aimed at finding a way to end apartheid and establish a democratic system of government in South Africa.
The most significant formal talks between the ANC and the National Party took place between 1990 and 1994. These talks were held under the auspices of the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) and involved various political parties and interest groups. The negotiations focused on issues such as the release of political prisoners, the dismantling of apartheid laws, and the drafting of a new constitution.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, the formal and informal talks between the ANC and the National Party ultimately led to the historic 1994 democratic elections in which Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected president of South Africa. These talks also paved the way for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which played a vital role in helping the country heal from the wounds of apartheid.