Early Life and Childhood

South African statesman and president (1994-99). Born Rolihlahla Mandela on July 18, 1918 in Transkei, South Africa. Mandela's father had four wives, and Mandela's mother, Nosekeni Fanny, was the third. His father died when Mandela was nine years old, and he was taken in by a high-ranking chief who provided him with an education for the civil service. It was in college where Mandela developed a nationalist position and began to advocate for black African rights.

He was arrested and imprisoned for twenty-seven years. In time, as the white South African government reeled under international political pressure, Mandela was released and began working with the South African white government to transition to black majority rule and away from apartheid. At age 77, Mandela was elected President of South Africa, serving only one term. He has since spent his life promoting equality and world peace.

Growing Up in South Africa

There was little in Nelson Mandela's early life to indicate that he would become a leader of an independence movement and eventually president of his country. He was born Rolihlahla Mandela in rural South Africa in the tiny village of Mvezo, on the banks of the Mbashe River in the province of Transkei. "Rolihlahla" in the language of Xhosa literally means "pulling the branch of a tree," but more commonly means "troublemaker."

His father was destined to be a chief and for years served as a counselor to tribal chiefs. But over a dispute with the local colonial magistrate, he lost his title and his fortune. Rolihlahla was only an infant at the time, and the loss of status forced his mother to move the family to Qunu, an even smaller village north of Mvezo. The village was nestled in a narrow grassy valley, with no roads—only footpaths linking pastures where livestock grazed. The family lived in huts, and water came from springs and streams.

Education and Activism

At the suggestion of one of Rolihlahla's father's friends, he was baptized into the Methodist church and became the first in his family to attend school. As was the custom at the time, his teacher gave him the name "Nelson." Mandela’s education began in earnest when he attended the Wesleyan Mission School, and he eventually went on to study at the University College of Fort Hare, the only higher learning institution for black South Africans at the time. During his time there, Mandela became politically aware, aligning himself with the African National Congress (ANC) and its goals.

While at Fort Hare, Mandela was elected to the Student Representative Council and joined other students in boycotting the school to protest against poor food and lack of control. After being expelled, he returned home, where his guardian arranged a marriage for him. Feeling trapped by the decision, Mandela fled to Johannesburg, where he started working various jobs and continued his education while pursuing a degree in law.

Political Leadership and the ANC

Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1942 and quickly became involved in the anti-apartheid movement. He and fellow young Africans in the ANC Youth League advocated for the transformation of the ANC into a mass movement, calling for a boycott, strikes, civil disobedience, and non-cooperation with apartheid policies.

Mandela's activism and leadership within the ANC eventually led to his arrest and a sentence of life imprisonment for charges including sabotage. During his 27 years in prison, Mandela became an international symbol of resistance against apartheid, drawing global attention to the injustices of the regime.

Freedom, Presidency, and Legacy

After his release in 1990, Mandela played a key role in negotiating an end to apartheid, eventually leading to South Africa's first democratic elections in 1994. At age 77, he was inaugurated as the first black president of South Africa. During his presidency, Mandela worked toward reconciliation between blacks and whites, oversaw the establishment of a new democratic constitution, and fought for the rights of all South Africans.

In 1993, Mandela shared the Nobel Peace Prize with F.W. de Klerk for their work dismantling apartheid. Even after retiring from active politics in 1999, Mandela continued his humanitarian efforts, promoting peace, equality, and the fight against HIV/AIDS. His legacy as one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century continues to inspire movements for justice and peace worldwide.

The Legacy of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela's legacy extends far beyond his time in office. He is a symbol of resilience, forgiveness, and commitment to justice. Through his dedication to the fight for freedom, his willingness to negotiate with his adversaries, and his pursuit of peace, Mandela has shaped South Africa and the world in profound ways. His impact continues to be felt through his foundation, his written works, and the millions of people whose lives he has touched.