Research On The Role Of Government In Industrial Development In South Africa: 1924-1948

South Africa is the most industrialized country in Africa.Mining Revolution commenced from 1870s-80 s laid the foundation,from which ushered in the process of industrialization.However,mining industry was still the pillar of South African economy until 1920 s.Industry accounts for a higher ratio in the economy when WWII came to an end.The economy made great strides from 1920 s to 1940 s,during this period the government played a major role in boosting industrial development.In 1924,National Party,which represents the interest of Afrikaners,formed a coalition government with the Labour Party,which defends the interest of British whites.The government actively involved in the process of industrial development: it built up national institutions and enterprise which support the industrial development;it advocated and implemented the Import Substitution Strategy(ISI)through stipulating laws and regulations protecting domestic industry.In 1948,the National Party led by Malan came into power.The government pursued racism policy then;industrial development was faced with complex challenges mixed with racism and anti-racism struggle.The period of 1924 to 1948 is especially important for South African industrial development.The government,again,actively involved during this stage.Government impact on South African industrial development was also salient in the racial segregation era from 1948 to 1994 and the black majority rule since 1994.Government strategic orientation,policy,policy implementation capacity and management level are all directly associated with industrial development,bringing about positive or negative influences.It is thus safe to conclude that the impact of the government is an important perspective when understanding the history and process of South African industrial development.