When the first Europeans arrived in South Africa, the Indigenous people used many ways to resist them. These Europeans were mostly the Portuguese in the late 1400s and early 1500s, and later the Dutch and British. Here is how the Indigenous South Africans fought back:
1. Fighting Back:
The Indigenous people, like the Khoikhoi, often fought against the Europeans. They knew the land well and used this knowledge in battles. For example, in the 16th century, the Khoikhoi fought against the Portuguese at the Cape of Good Hope. They used surprise attacks and hit-and-run tactics, making it hard for the Europeans to win.
2. Economic Resistance:
The Indigenous people also resisted by not trading with the Europeans or by disrupting their supplies. The Europeans needed local resources like cattle and food to survive. By refusing to trade or by attacking supply lines, the Khoikhoi and other groups made it difficult for the Europeans to stay and settle. This was especially effective against the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in the mid-1600s, which needed local supplies for its outpost at the Cape.
3. Keeping Their Culture:
Indigenous South Africans resisted by holding onto their own cultures and ways of life. They kept speaking their languages and practicing their traditions, despite European efforts to change them. This cultural resistance helped them maintain their identity and independence.
4. Making Alliances:
Indigenous leaders also used diplomacy. They talked and negotiated with the Europeans, and sometimes made alliances with other Indigenous groups. By working together, they could better resist the Europeans. These alliances made it harder for the Europeans to take control and expand their settlements.
5. Moving Away:
In some cases, Indigenous groups moved to new areas to avoid the Europeans. By relocating, they could escape direct control and continue their way of life without interference….. Fínd Óut Móre
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