Rolihlahla (Nelson) Mandela born, in South Africa.
School teacher calls him Nelson.
Began attending African National Congress (ANC), a revolutionary group that fought apartheid (laws enforcing racial separation and oppression in South Africa).
Started law school at University of the Witwatersrand.
Helped found the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL). Married Evelyn Ntoko Mase (they had 4 children).
Arrested for treason - later acquitted.
Divorced Evelyn then married Nomzamo Winnie Madikizela (they had 2 children).
The ANC is banned.
Sentenced to life in prison (with other ANC friends) for his revolutionary actions.
Released from prison on February 11 after 27 years behind bars. Apartheid repealed.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (with F. W. de Klerk).
Elected president of South Africa. Served until 1999 (Mandela refused a second term). Published his autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom."
Truth and Reconciliation Commission formed (chaired by Archbishop Desmond Tutu)
Divorced Winnie
Married Graça Machel (on July 18, his 80th birthday).
Mandela's second book, "Conversations with Myself", is published.
