Nelson Mandela's life By stuff Jul 18, 1918 Nelson Mandela born in South Africa. Jan 1, 1940 1940 - Mandela expelled from university for political activity. Jan 1, 1944 1944 - Mandela forms the youth league of the African National Congress. He formed the group with Oliver Tambo and Walter Sislu. Jul 8, 1949 1948 - South African government introduces apartheid policy of racial segregation. Jan 1, 1952 1952 - Mandela opens first black legal firm in South Africa. Dec 5, 1956 Mandela and 150 others arrested and charged with treason. All were acquitted. Mar 21, 1960 Sharpeville Massacre sees police kill 69 peaceful protesters. Dec 16, 1961 Umkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC's armed faction, formed by Mandela and others. Aug 5, 1962 Mandela arrested. He is later sentenced to 5 years in prison for leading striking workers, but escapes and goes on the run. Jun 12, 1964 Mandela recaptured and sentenced to life in prison for sabotage and other crimes, escaping the death penalty. Feb 1, 1985 Mandela rejects South African President PW Botha's offer to release him if he renounces violence. Feb 11, 1990 Mandela is released from prison. Oct 15, 1993 1993 - Mandela receives Nobel Peace Prize, with FW de Klerk. Apr 26, 1994 First free elections in South Africa. Mandela elected first black president. Jun 14, 1999 Mandela decides not to seek a second term as president. He is succeeded by Thabo Mbeki. Jun 2, 2004 Mandela retires from public life. Jan 6, 2005 Mandela's son, Makgatho Mandela, dies of Aids. Jan 27, 2011 92-year-old Mandela admitted to hospital, sparking concerns about his health.
