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The paper examines the development of emancipatory politics during the crucial period from 1979 to 1985, when the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa intensified and went through major transformations. This led to a proliferation of new movements, at both the local and national levels, which mobilized around key socio-economic grievances and demands for political freedom. Adults/workers and youth/students were two critical constituencies who built national movements centered around schools, workplaces, and townships. These movements were broadly characterized by local democratic organizations, broad popular support, and radical political programs. The alliance between these movements created a powerful collective that ultimately brought apartheid to its knees.