Biography

Nelson Mandela: South Africa’s First Democratic President (1918-2013)

Early Life and Education

• Born July 18, 1918 in Mvezo, South Africa
• Given name “Rolihlahla” (Xhosa for “troublemaker”)
• Studied at:
  • University of Fort Hare (expelled for activism)
  • University of Witwatersrand (law degree)
• Co-founded South Africa’s first black law firm (1952)

Anti-Apartheid Activism

• Joined African National Congress (ANC) in 1944
• Led 1952 Defiance Campaign against unjust laws
• Helped establish ANC’s armed wing (1961)
• Charged with sabotage in Rivonia Trial (1964)

Imprisonment and Resilience

• Served 27 years in prison (1964-1990):
  • Robben Island (18 years)
  • Pollsmoor Prison
  • Victor Verster Prison
• Refused conditional release offers
• Secretly negotiated with apartheid government

Democratic Transition

• Released February 11, 1990
• Won Nobel Peace Prize with F.W. de Klerk (1993)
• Elected first black president (1994-1999)
• Established Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Presidential Achievements

• Oversaw new democratic constitution (1996)
• Created social programs for:
  • Housing
  • Education
  • Healthcare
• Maintained economic stability during transition
• Voluntarily stepped down after one term

Global Legacy

• Served as mediator in African conflicts
• Founded Nelson Mandela Foundation
• UN declared July 18 “Mandela Day”
• Died December 5, 2013 (age 95)
• Memorial attended by 100 world leaders

Key Statistics

Facts	Year/Data
Years Imprisoned	27 (1964-1990)
Presidential Term	1994-1999 (5 years)
Nobel Peace Prize	1993
Votes in 1994 Election	62.65%

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” - Nelson Mandela

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Mandela