Mr. Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was born as Rolihlahla Mandela in a village in the Cape Province to a local chief and a descendant of native royalty. His upbringing was a mix of traditional Xhosa customs and Western social influences. The early 20th century in South Africa was marked by the formation of the Union of South Africa and power struggles fueled by British colonial expansion due to the discovery of gold and diamond mines. This led to conflicts with native tribes and Boer descendants, mainly Dutch, German, and French settlers who controlled wealth and political power. Mandela married Evelyn Mase during a period of increasing struggle for black rights in South Africa, with the couple having a modest wedding due to financial constraints. The rise of the anti-black National Party and the implementation of the Apartheid policy further exacerbated tensions in the country, leading to segregation and limited civil liberties for the black population. Mandela's political involvement increased before 1948, culminating in his role in the overthrow of ANC President Xuma. Embracing Communist ideologies in the 1950s, Mandela became a prominent figure in the ANC movement, opposing the Pan-Africanist Congress and expanding the ANC network.

Mandela championed a vision of a racially inclusive future for South Africa. He undertook secret travels to establish new branches of the ANC and expand its reach. The formation of uMkhonto we Sizwe and the Anti-Apartheid Movement were key milestones in his efforts. Mandela embarked on visits to various African nations to secure funding and backing for the ANC, including commitments to weapons and ammunition. A division emerged within the ANC, with some advocating for non-violent resistance while others, Mandela included, formed a paramilitary arm. In 1964, Mandela received a life sentence and was moved to Robben Island, a high-security penitentiary. The conditions on Robben Island were harsh, with cramped cells, grueling labor, and limited contact with the outside world. Mandela's imprisonment on the island attracted global attention and sparked campaigns for his release. Despite enduring severe treatment, Mandela's detention became a matter of international concern, prompting visits from prominent political figures and hunger strikes to protest the mistreatment of political detainees. Mandela's unwavering anti-apartheid stance, bolstered by his wife Winnie's support and strategic positioning by the ANC, positioned him as a central figure in the movement to dismantle apartheid in South Africa. Nelson Mandela regained his freedom in 1990, marking the end of his 27-year incarceration. F.W. de Klerk played a pivotal role in dismantling apartheid and transitioning from a staunch apartheid advocate to a reformist leader.

The release of Mandela was postponed at his request to allow him to collaborate with other leaders of the ANC and make preparations for his release. De Klerk and Mandela worked together to address divisions for South Africa's future. Discussions in 1991-1992 focused on federal structure and autonomy. Mandela released 'Long Walk to Freedom' during the political transition. Mandela played a crucial role in the transition to post-Apartheid South Africa and in national reconciliation. Mandela sought to build a 'Rainbow Nation' by appealing to South Africans of all backgrounds. Mandela successfully prevented major racial violence in post-Apartheid South Africa. During his presidency, Mandela made progress in providing basic services but faced criticism for his handling of HIV/Aids and crime. A major focus was on creating a new constitution for South Africa after the end of Apartheid, with provisions for universal suffrage and a unique government structure. Mandela's transformation from being condemned as a terrorist to a respected global statesman advocating for an end to regional conflicts. Nelson Mandela handed over control of the government to Thabo Mbeki in 1996. Mbeki was elected as Deputy President of South Africa and of the ANC in 1994.

Mandela founded the Nelson Mandela Foundation in 1999 to address the issues of HIV/Aids and promote economic development in Africa. Following his retirement, Mandela was actively involved in the 2010 football World Cup and played a key role in the establishment of the Elders in 2007. Unfortunately, Mandela's health began to deteriorate, leading to his passing in December 2013.