The Second World War undoubtedly had many significant effects on South Africa in many aspects of her domestic affairs. It sparked off a great amount of resistance as well as making an impact on politics and the parties in power in various different ways.

The Second World War had an important and significant effect on Afrikaner Politics. When, in 1939, Hertzog left his position as prime minister the majority of United Party members who were previously members of the National Party left at the same time. In 1940 Hertzog and his followers fused with the Purified National Party, with Malan as its leader, and together they formed the Herenigde National Party. Hertzog became the head of the HNP, and Malan agreed for people to join the party even if they did not support South Africa becoming a republic. However, certain dedicated republicans, such as JG Strijdom, were against Hertzog's control...