Celebrating Black History - Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) is best known for leading the movement to end the South African apartheid, for which he won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. Born Rolihlahla Mandela in Transkei, South Africa, Mandela would go on to attend the University of Fort Hare and study Law at the University of Witwatersrand. In 1944, he joined the African National Congress (ANC), helping to form the ANC Youth League and rising to a leader in the campaign to end South African Apartheid.
After the South African government banned the ANC in 1960, Mandela’s continued resistance would see him arrested and tried for treason and plotting to overthrow the government and sentenced to life in prison. On April 20, 1964, Mandela would give his famous, “Speech from the Dock:”
Mural featuring one of the famous passages from Mandela’s speech from the dock.
During his imprisonment, Mandela’s reputation only grew, becoming a symbol for the anti-apartheid movement throughout the world. After 27 years of increasing national resistance and international pressure, Mandela would be released on February 11, 1991. On May 10th 1994, Mandela would be inaugurated as South Africa’s first democratically elected President.
Read More:
Celebrating Black History Series
Black greatness is a reality every day, all year, not just during Black history month. For that reason, we are making a commitment to recognize diverse history-makers throughout the year because Black history is American history. Our “Spotlight on Black History” will feature well-known, and lesser-known black heroes trailblazers, changemakers, and community champions. Black Americans have made invaluable contributions to science, education, healthcare, the arts, civil rights, politics, and culture. Their stories have made an indelible mark in every aspect of our society, and we hope that you will join us as we salute Black history-makers. Who are the black heroes in your life? Email Lauren at lbrown@cispac.org with your tribute and we may feature it on our platforms.