UP, noun

Origin:
Initial letters of United Party (earlier United South African Party).
historical
A political party formed in 1934 by the merger of the National Party (see NP) and the South African Party (see SAP noun1). Also attributive. See also Fusion.
Note:
The UP was the governing party from its formation until 1948; it was the official Opposition from 1948 until 1977, when it was dissolved. In 1977 some former members joined with the Progressive Reform Party to form the Progressive Federal Party (see PFP), while others formed the NRP.
1938 George & Knysna Herald 19 Oct. 4Malanites gain Marico...Nationalist gain from U.P.
1943 Cape Times 29 July 4The first election result to arrive at this office last evening was Major Piet van der Byl’s at Bredasdorp — a smashing U.P. victory.
1950 H. Gibbs Twilight in S. Afr. 139Mr. J.G. Strauss..became acting leader of the UP during General Smuts’ absence abroad in 1949.
1970 Daily News 3 JuneDebate on Swing to U.P.
1977 Cape Times 29 June 1UP to form new party today...At least nine UP members voted against the decision to dissolve.
1986 Style Mar. 43I remember during the referendum of 1959 or 1960..tearing off UP posters.
A political party formed in 1934 by the merger of the National Party (see NP) and the South African Party (see SAP noun1). Also attributive.
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19381986