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Early Life
Rolihlahla Mandela was born on July 18, 1918 in Mvezo, South Africa. He grew up in modest circumstances, but was the first of his family to experience education. He first got the name “Nelson” in school. After the death of his father at age 9, Mandela was taken in by a chief and introduced into a new lifestyle where the discrimination in his country was very apparent. This video summarizes Mandela's early years and beyond. -
Higher Education
In 1939, Mandela enrolled in the only higher education option for blacks during his time: University College of Fort Hare. But his participation in a student protest resulted in his expulsion, Mandela returned back to his home.The chief greeted him with an arranged marriage that caused Mandela to run away to escape this obligation. -
First Anti-Apartheid Actions
In 1942, Mandela joined the African National Convention, where he became involved in the Youth League. He led countless peaceful protests for 20 years against the South African government in an attempt to fight the racism that was so apparent. Some of his most notable protests were the Defiance Campaign and Congress of the People. He also founded a law firm (Mandela and Tambo) to provide black people equal legal help they were denied on account of discrimmination. -
First Imprisonment
Mandela was charged with treason, but was eventually convicted. He then began to adopt for violent tactics to achieve his goals with the group MC, showing his dedication to creating change. After organizing a 3-day workers strike, Mandela was arrested and sentenced to 5 years in prison. -
Support
This photo depicts a portion of the countless supporters that Mandela had (Royle). These supporters protested the persecution of Mandela as well as continuing to speak out against the apartheid in their country just as Mandela was.The photo proves how much respect Mandela garnered and just how large his scope of influence was on his society. Mandela was able to continue to make progress in his campaign because of this support. -
"I am Prepared to Die
This recording is a clip of Mandela's famous speech, titled "I am Prepared to DIe". This speech was given when he was re-tried for his original conviction. It outlines what he wants to achieve and why, ending with the powerful statement that he is prepared to die fighting for this cause (Mandela). His speech shows his courage and determination. The trial resulted in Mandela being sentenced to life in prison for his political offenses. -
Robben Island
A majority of Mandela's imprisonment was spent on Robben Island off the coast of South Africa. Here, he and the other prisoners there that were convicted with Mandela experienced extremely unfair circumstances, such as hard labor and little health care (Bio). Although Mandela went through immense harship, he never lost sight of his goal of an equal South Africa, again proving his perseverance and strength. -
Release
Upon the death of President P.W. Botha, the new South African president released Mandela and his fellow prisoners. Although he was finally freed, Mandela still continued to fight for the equality that was not yet a reality in his country. This political cartoon illustrates Mandela's triumphant release with the help of his supporters (Distin). It proves Mandela's determination to overcome hardship and acheive a goal. His freedom gave him opportunity to continue his campaign. -
Presidency
After years of struggle, Mandela's efforts finally paid off. He was elected president in the first democratic elections held in South Africa. This photo was taken at Mandela's inaguration (Popular Resistance). This event also illustrates the amount of support that Mandela received for his actions because he was elected to lead an entire country. Serving as president until 1999, this was the pinnacle of Mandela's political career. -
Autobiography
This link highlights famous quotes from the book. In 1995, Mandela published his autobiography titled "Long Walk to Freedom". The autobiography gives the ultimate insight into Mandela's life because he gives his own perspective. Along with providing details from all of Mandela's accomplishments, it also reveals his personal feelings during all of these events. -
Death
Nelson Mandela died on December 5th, 2013 in his home from a respiratory infection at the age of 95. Mandela is a hero to people all over the world. He will remain a symbol of equality for years to come in the place he impacted South Africa, as well as internationally. This article provides insight on Mandela's lasting legacy.
