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Born in Mvezo, South Africa
Mandela was a Christian but did not often speak of his faith. He had a more worldy view on the world and belived that 'No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.' -
Became involved with the African National Congress (ANC)
ANC was a multi-racial nationalist movement attempting to force a change in the politics of South Africa. Nelson Mandela banded with a small group of young Africans within the ANC, calling themselves the Youth League. Their goal was to transfrom ANC into a mass movement, gathering strength from rural peseants and working people who had no voice under the current political leadership. -
Began tertiary studies at the University of Fort Hare and University of Witwatersrand
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National Party came to power
The National Party began to implement the apartheid policy, segregation based on race APARTHEID 46 YEARS IN 90 SECONDS -
Youth League's methods were adopted in the ANC
These methods included boycott, strike, civil disobedience and non-cooperation. -
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Mandela directed a peaceful anti-apartheid movement
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Imprisioned for 27 years for his role in the anti-apartheid movement
During Mandela's imprisonment, he remained a role model and symbol for peace and equality in South Africa. While imprisoned, he recited the poem 'Invictus' to other prisoners and was inspired by its self-empowering message. 'It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.' -
Nelson Mandela was released from prison
After being released from 27 years of unjust imprisonment, he forgave those who imprisoned him and contiued to work for justice and equity. <a href='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kh9bSroS_9Y' >Nelson Mandela Released from Prison -
Elected President of the African National Congress
Mandela continued to negotiate with President F.W. de Klerk to move towards the first multiracial elections. His political views were ones of a free and democratic society where everyone lives in harmony. -
Jointly awared Nobel Peace prize with President de Klerk
For their work in dismantling the apartheid with negotiations between black and white South Africans. -
Elected as South Africa's first black president
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Mandela served as President of South Africa
He focuesd on the transition from the apartheid to the equality of both races. He used the nation's sporting enthusiam as a catalyst for this change, through the promotion of the nation's rugby team. -
Passed away at age 95
