This is Gold Fields Our history 1939-1966

Our history 1939 – 1966

1939 – 1945

Gold Fields pushes its operations in Alaska, Australia, Colombia, New Guinea, South Africa and West Africa to record levels to fund the Allied war effort during World War II.

1948

The National Party wins the election, signalling the start of the iniquities of apartheid and separate development. A year later, the ANC Youth League publishes its Programme for Action.

1959 – 1960

The name 'Gold Fields of South Africa' is reintroduced to cover all South African operations of Consolidated Gold Fields of London. Consolidated Gold Fields (Australia) is also established. On 21 March 1960, the Sharpeville massacre results in the death of 69 peaceful and unarmed protesters by the authorities.

1961

The Republic of South Africa is established and leaves the British Commonwealth of Nations. Consolidated Gold Fields moves into mineral sands mining in Australia – with rutile and zircon doubling in price over the next two years.

1963

Consolidated Gold Fields acquires control of American Zinc, Lead and Smelting Company for US$18 million. Over the next two years, global demand for zinc almost doubles.

1966

The Rivonia Trial ends, with Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and other ANC activists sentenced to life imprisonment on Robben Island.