Drum Magazine social history photographs, South Africa edition 1260

Treason Trial Halts: Ruth First. Treason trialists outside the court. On the mild, cloudy Pretoria morning of October 13, 1958, a truly sensational event unfolded for the 91 men and women, of all races, accused of high treason. Mr. Pirow, leader of the Crown prosecution team, rose to his feet. He gently touched a colleague who was still addressing the court, then brought the microphone to his lips and, in a hoarse voice, declared, "Your Lordship, I withdraw the indictment against the accused." This was the trial's This moment marked the pinnacle of the trial's dramatic tension. In the packed non-white gallery, black faces illuminated with dawning comprehension, swung around to swiftly gaze at the judges, still questioning if they had truly heard correctly. Outside, where spectators and photographers pressed in on the accused, jubilant shouts of 'Africa' rang out high and firm, while victory handshakes punctuated the day's profound relief.