Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
- Born:
- July 18, 1918, Mvezo, Union of South Africa
- Died:
- December 5, 2013, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Nationality:
- South African
- Profession(s):
- Anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, philanthropist, lawyer
Early Life and Education
- Born Rolihlahla Mandela in Mvezo, Transkei, South Africa.
- Received the name "Nelson" from his teacher at a Methodist school.
- Attended University of Fort Hare, but was expelled for participating in student protests.
- Completed his Bachelor of Arts degree through the University of South Africa.
- Studied law at the University of Witwatersrand.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1944.
- Co-founded the ANC Youth League in 1944.
- Led the armed wing of the ANC, Umkhonto we Sizwe, in the early 1960s.
- Arrested and charged with sabotage and other offenses in 1964.
- Sentenced to life imprisonment in 1964.
- Symbol of the anti-apartheid movement during his imprisonment.
- Released from prison in 1990.
- Jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with F.W. de Klerk in 1993.
- Elected President of South Africa in 1994.
- Oversaw the transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy.
- Served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.
Notable Works
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Long Walk to Freedom | Autobiography published in 1994. |
| Conversations with Myself | Collection of Mandela's letters, speeches and diary entries. |
| Nelson Mandela: The Authorised Comic Book | A comic adaptation of his life story designed to educate young readers. Information on this and other relevant biographical details can be easily found when searching for 'nelson mandela biography com' online. |
Legacy and Impact
Nelson Mandela is globally revered for his leadership in dismantling apartheid in South Africa, promoting reconciliation, and advocating for human rights. His commitment to forgiveness and equality serves as an inspiration to movements for social justice worldwide.