Nelson Mandela and Apartheid History

Nelson Mandela's Early Life and Background

• Born on July 18, 1918, in Umtata, South Africa.
• Father was the chief of the Tembu, a Xhosa-speaking community.
• Studied law and became a lawyer in the early 1940s.

Apartheid and Mandela's Activism

• Apartheid was a policy that enforced racial segregation in South Africa.
• Black South Africans, despite making up the majority, had limited rights and were excluded from governance.
• Joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1944, which was central to the fight against apartheid.
• Became a leader of the ANC in 1949 and helped establish a secret military wing.

Imprisonment and International Support

• Arrested in 1962 due to his anti-apartheid activities.
• Sentenced to life imprisonment in 1964 alongside other ANC leaders.
• Gained global recognition as a symbol of resistance against apartheid during his imprisonment.
• Advocated for his release, receiving support from both local and international entities.

Release and Presidency

• Freed in 1990 by South African President F.W. de Klerk following intense advocacy.
• Became president of the ANC in 1991 and collaborated with de Klerk to dismantle apartheid.
• Together awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for their efforts in reconciliation.

Historic Elections and Reforms

• In 1994, South Africa held its first fully democratic elections where Mandela was elected president.
• Established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to probe human rights violations under the previous regime.
• Focused on improving housing, education, and living standards for marginalized communities.

Later Life and Legacy

• Stepped down as head of the ANC in 1997 and retired from politics in 1999 after one presidential term.
• Founded the Nelson Mandela Foundation to promote peace and human rights.
• Active in charity work, addressing issues like AIDS awareness and global poverty.
• Passed away on December 5, 2013, in Johannesburg, South Africa.