Apartheid Quote by Oliver Tambo
“How do you deal with a criminal that will not listen to what you have to say and who continues his policy of violence? Some say you continue to talk and let him tire himself out. But nearly 40 years after the institution of apartheid, is there anyone who still believes that verbal persuasion will work?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Anti‑Apartheid Rally, South Africa, 1990
Violence cannot be stopped by words alone; systemic change requires decisive action beyond persuasion.
In simple terms: Words alone won’t stop violence.
Key Takeaway
Act decisively, not just talk.
Themes
politics
conflict
activism
Mood
determined
serious
Type
political
motivational
When to use this quote
- community organizing
- policy reform
- peace negotiations
Key Concepts
nonviolent resistance
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Can dialogue ever end entrenched violence?
- When is force justified?
A Different Perspective
Violence may persist despite dialogue; force may be needed.
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