Nelson Mandela’s Personal Life
Nelson Mandela was born Rolihlahla Mandela on 18 July 1918 in the village of Mvezo, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Widely known by his clan name, Madiba, he rose from rural beginnings to become one of the most revered statesmen in modern history.
Nelson Mandela’s Career
Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, lawyer and political leader who became the country’s first democratically elected president.
Who was Nelson Mandela?
Nelson Mandela trained as a lawyer and became a leading figure in the African National Congress, dedicating his life to dismantling the apartheid system of racial segregation. His moral authority made him a global symbol of the struggle for justice and reconciliation.
Nelson Mandela’s Imprisonment
Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, much of it on Robben Island, for his role in the fight against apartheid. His release on 11 February 1990 was watched around the world and marked a turning point in South African history.
Nelson Mandela’s Presidency
Nelson Mandela was elected President of South Africa in 1994, in the country’s first fully democratic election, and served until 1999. His presidency was defined by an emphasis on reconciliation, nation-building and the peaceful transition from apartheid.
Nelson Mandela’s Family
Nelson Mandela was married three times, including his well-known union with anti-apartheid activist Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and later to Graça Machel. He was a father and grandfather to a large family.
Nelson Mandela’s Death & Legacy
Nelson Mandela died on 5 December 2013 in Johannesburg, at the age of 95. He is remembered worldwide as the father of a democratic South Africa, and his birthday, 18 July, is honoured annually as Nelson Mandela International Day.
Nelson Mandela’s Awards & Recognition
Nelson Mandela received hundreds of honours during his lifetime, most notably the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize, which he shared with F.W. de Klerk for their work to end apartheid peacefully.
Nelson Mandela Q&A
Who was Nelson Mandela?
Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid leader and the first democratically elected President of South Africa, serving from 1994 to 1999.
How old was Nelson Mandela when he died?
Nelson Mandela was 95 years old when he died on 5 December 2013. He was born on 18 July 1918.
How long was Nelson Mandela in prison?
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison before his release in 1990.
What was Nelson Mandela’s real name?
Nelson Mandela’s birth name was Rolihlahla Mandela, and he was widely known by his clan name, Madiba.
