The Life and Contributions of Nelson Mandela

Introduction

1900

Nelson Mandela lived a life of high achievement, but also controversy. His work in regards to politics and development were some of the most influential of his time and his legacy still lives on today. The goal of this timeline is show a glimpse of his story and take you through a brief journey through the life of one of the most praise figures that ever lived.

Born Rolihlahla Mandela at Mvezo in the Transkei

Jul 18, 1918

This is the birthplace of Mandela and where he spent most of his years as a child.

Mandela Enrolls in Primary School

1925

Nelson Mandela was the first in his family to go to school. It is here that he receives the name "Nelson" from one of his teachers.

Mandela's Father dies

1930

Gadla Henry Mphakanyiswa Nelson Mandela's Father
He was later cared for by Thembu Regent Jongintaba Dalindyebo at the age of 12.

Enrolls at the University College of Fort Hare, in Alice

1939

University of Fort Hare in South Africa

Expelled From University

1940

Mandela was expelled from Fort Hare for participating in a student protest occurring on the campus.

Escapes Arranged Marriage

1941

Upon returning home University, Jongintaba, otherwise known as David Dalindyebo, who became a prominent father figure in Mandela's life, tried to arrange a marriage for Mandela. Upon hearing this, he fled to Johannesburg.

Completes BA through the University of South Africa (UNISA)

1942

Attends the University of South Africa to complete his Bachelor of Arts.

Starts to Attend African National Congress Meetings

1942

Before Mandela was truly involved with politics, he attended Congress meetings informally.

Enrolls for an Bachelor of Law degree at Wits University

1943

Graduates from Fort Hare with a Bachelors degree during this time as well.

First Major Contribution in Politics

1944

Co-founds the ANC Youth League, whose aims were to unify Africans together and defend their rights and freedoms.

Elected National Secretary of ANCYL

1948

Nelson Mandela is elected National Secretary of the African National Congress Youth League.

Elected President of ANCYL

1951

Mandela is officially elected as the leader of youth league.

Arrested for Role in the Defiance Campaign

1952

Mandela was charged with violating the Suppression of Communism Act and sentenced to nine months in Jail.

Arrested for Treason after calling for a nonracial state in the Country

1953

Mandela would later be aquitted of these charges, but that was not the end of his run-ins with the law.

Sent to Prison for 27 years

1962

Mandela was sent to prison for leading in the African National Congress.

Released From Prison and elected ANC Deputy President

1993

Upon leaving prison, the African National Congress elected Nelson Mandela to the position of Deputy President

Awarded Nobel Peace Prize for his work in creating the new democratic of South Africa

1993

Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize with President Frederik Willem de Klerk of South Africa.

Votes for the First Time

1994

Nelson Mandela on April 27, 1994, votes in an election for the first time.

Elected President of South Africa

May 10, 1994

Nelson Mandela was elected as the first black President of South Africa.

Establishes Nelson Mandela Children's Fund

1995

Goal of Fund is to help children in development in regard to education and safety

Creates the Nelson Mandela Foundation

1999

Steps down from the Presidency after one term to create his foundation.

Passes Away from a Prolonged Respiratory Infection

Dec 5, 2013

Nelson Mandela passed away in Johannesburg, Gauteng.