A strike by White mineworkers turns into open rebellion

Angry White workers, on strike since 28 December 1921, stormed and occupied police stations, railway installations and mines on the Witwatersrand. They also attacked Johannesburg's main post office and power station in a mass protest that, in a few hours, turned into open rebellion against the state. They decided to use force to overthrow the government and to declare a republic. Prime Minister J.C. Smuts declared martial law and entered Johannesburg with detachments of the army, supported by the air force. Within four days the revolt was crushed. 153 people, including 72 members of the state forces, had been killed and 534 injured. This uprising is popularly known as the Rand Revolt or Rebellion. Click here to read our feature on the Rand Revolt. Read more about History of Labour struggles and organisation in South Africa.