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Nelson Mandela born in South Africa.
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1940 - Mandela expelled from university for political activity.
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1944 - Mandela forms the youth league of the African National Congress.
He formed the group with Oliver Tambo and Walter Sislu. -
1948 - South African government introduces apartheid policy of racial segregation.
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1952 - Mandela opens first black legal firm in South Africa.
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Mandela and 150 others arrested and charged with treason.
All were acquitted. -
Sharpeville Massacre sees police kill 69 peaceful protesters.
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Umkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC's armed faction, formed by Mandela and others.
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Mandela arrested. He is later sentenced to 5 years in prison for leading striking workers, but escapes and goes on the run.
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Mandela recaptured and sentenced to life in prison for sabotage and other crimes, escaping the death penalty.
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Mandela rejects South African President PW Botha's offer to release him if he renounces violence.
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Mandela is released from prison.
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1993 - Mandela receives Nobel Peace Prize, with FW de Klerk.
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First free elections in South Africa. Mandela elected first black president.
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Mandela decides not to seek a second term as president. He is succeeded by Thabo Mbeki.
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Mandela retires from public life.
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Mandela's son, Makgatho Mandela, dies of Aids.
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92-year-old Mandela admitted to hospital, sparking concerns about his health.
