Why Nelson Mandela's Legacy Still Matters

On July 18, 1918, Rolihlahla Mandela was born in the village of Mvezo in South Africa. He was the son of Chief Henry Mandela of the Madiba clan. Nelson Mandela, as he later became known, chose to become a lawyer instead of inheriting his chieftainship. He became a prominent leader and advocate for equal rights for black South Africans.

Mandela's protests against apartheid in the 1950s and 60s led to his imprisonment for 27 years. Despite being incarcerated, he remained a significant figure for anti-apartheid activists. After his release, Mandela became South Africa's first black president. In 2009, the United Nations designated July 18 as Nelson Mandela Day.

Nelson Mandela worked to bring about significant changes in South Africa, transitioning from law to politics. Apartheid, a system segregating white and black populations, limited the rights of black individuals. Mandela's opposition to apartheid led to his conviction for treason in 1964, resulting in a life sentence served on Robben Island.

In 1990, South African President FW de Klerk released Mandela after 27 years in prison, marking a new era in the country. Mandela's release symbolized resistance against apartheid and was celebrated globally. Apartheid officially ended in 1991, followed by South Africa's first democratic elections in which people of all races could vote. Mandela's presidency focused on reconciliation and unity among the diverse population.

Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for his efforts. In 1995, he supported the South African rugby team, the Springboks, during the Rugby World Cup, promoting national unity. Mandela's legacy as a champion of forgiveness and equality is revered by South Africans of various backgrounds. His death in 2013 brought together people of different heritages to mourn the loss of a globally respected leader.