The major event that marked the end of apartheid in South Africa was the first multiracial elections held in 1994, which resulted in Nelson Mandela becoming the country's first black president. After years of systematic racial segregation and oppression, these historic elections symbolized a shift toward democracy and equality. The peaceful transition and Mandela's leadership were pivotal in forging a new national identity and laid the groundwork for reconciliation efforts, marking a significant milestone in the struggle against racial injustice.