Mandela, Nelson

Early Life and education

Nelson Mandela was born Rolihlahla Mandela on 18th July, 1918. He was the first person in his family to go to school, where his teacher gave him the English name ‘Nelson’. During this time, the National Party, which enforced a policy of racial segregation known as ‘apartheid’, was in power in South Africa. This policy made life extremely difficult for black people, relegating them to second-class citizenship.

Political Awakening and ANC Involvement

After completing his university education, Mandela moved to Johannesburg, where he became actively involved in the opposition movement against apartheid, the African National Congress (ANC). Initially, the ANC advocated for non-violent forms of protest.

Shift to armed struggle

However, Mandela's arrest in 1956 alongside 150 others on charges of treason led him to conclude that non-violent protest alone would not suffice to combat the oppressive regime. By 1961, he had assumed leadership of the ANC's armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), and began planning for guerrilla warfare as a means to end apartheid.

Imprisonment and global symbol of Resistance

Mandela was arrested again in August 1962 and spent the subsequent twenty-seven years in prison, with a significant portion of this time on Robben Island under harsh conditions. Despite the limited contact with the outside world, Mandela's resolve in the fight against apartheid turned him into a global symbol of resistance for freedom and equality.

Release and global recognition

The relentless pressure from international politicians, activists, writers, and artists eventually led to Mandela's release on 2nd February 1990, an event that was broadcast live to audiences worldwide. Mandela's walk to freedom marked a pivotal moment in the struggle against apartheid and his enduring legacy as a champion for justice and equality.

Death of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela, a man who fought against apartheid and for the rights of his fellow citizens, passed away on December 5, 2013, at the age of 95. His death was an event that left an indelible void worldwide. The South African leader is remembered as a just man who battled for human rights and against all forms of discrimination. Even today, he is regarded as a symbol in the fight against every form of racism and inequality.