This online exhibition and archive tells the remarkable story of how South Africa’s Constitution and Constitutional Court were forged – a critical period in the birthing of a democratic nation.
Few know of the intense battles that took place in the streets and were echoed in the negotiating chamber where sworn enemies sat across from one another; of the fierce debates that shaped specific provisions of the Constitution; and the many behind-the-scenes challenges that had to be overcome to allow a country of despair to become a country of hope.
The stories told here by activists, drafters of the constitution and judges are uniquely supported by rich archival materials from the constitution-making process.
Explore different aspects of the constitution-making journey in the tiles below.
THE CONSTITUTION AND ME TODAY
THE TIMELINES
VISIT THE ARCHIVE
This platform is inspired by the spirit of ‘We, the people’, the first three words of the Preamble to the Constitution, which recognises that the transformation of our country was made possible by the people who dreamt, struggled and fought for freedom and continue to do so based on their belief that ‘South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity’.
We invite you to add to the stories of the events told here in your own words and in your own languages.
