Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was born in Transkei, South Africa, on July 18, 1918. He was the first member of his family to attend school. A Methodist teacher gave him the name “Nelson” at school. He continued in school and later attended the University of South Africa in Johannesburg. He became a lawyer representing those who would otherwise go without legal assistance.

Mandela was first involved in nonviolent protests but was eventually arrested for treason and placed in prison. He was fighting against the apartheid and the treatment of his people. Apartheid was the practice of keeping the races separated in South Africa. Locked in his cell for years on end, Nelson’s spirit was not broken. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison. Most of this time was spent in a tiny cell on Robben Island. His captivity became widely publicized. He was considered a terrorist when he was imprisoned, but as time wore on, it became apparent that he was treated unjustly in his fight to end apartheid.

Once released from prison, Nelson Mandela went on to receive hundreds of awards. He received the Nobel Peace Prize which many felt was also a tribute to the people of South Africa as much as to him. On April 27, 1994, Nelson Mandela was elected President of South Africa. He served until 1999. He continues to work today pushing for peace throughout the world. In South Africa, he is known as Madiba, which is an honorary title. Nelson Mandela continues to inspire many.