South Africa's first black president and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela has died at the age of 95.
Freedom fighter, prisoner, moral compass and South
Africa's symbol of the struggle against racial oppression died on Thursday night at age 95.
His message of reconciliation, not vengeance, inspired the world after he negotiated a peaceful end to segregation and urged forgiveness for the white government that imprisoned him.
Mr Mandela led South Africa's transition from white-minority rule in the 1990s, after 27 years in prison for his political activities.
He had been receiving intensive medical care at home for a lung infection after spending three months in hospital.
Despite rare public appearances, he held a special
place in the consciousness of the nation and the world.
The world has just the man.
History by Pictures:
A young Nelson Mandela in boxing gear. (Gallo)
Mandela's political awakening began when he was a younglawyer in 1952.
Nelson Mandela and Winnie on their wedding day in 1958.
Mandela, still young, at the time of the Rivonia trial. Photo: Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory
Mandela the Lawyer: A young, bearded Nelson Mandela around the time of the treason trial.
Nelson Mandela, pictured in the early 1960s, before he was sentenced in 1964 to life in prison for sabotage
Nelson Mandela with his ex-wife Winnie, after his release, 11 February 1990.
Nelson Mandela elected President
1996: Mandela rides with Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in a carriage outside Buckingham Palace during the South African president's visit to the country.
Former South African president Nelson Mandela in 2004
Mr Mandela was in 'serious' condition when he was flown from Qunu to hospital on Dec 8th
May his soul rest in prefect peace .A man of good work .Im also praying for his family too. Hv my condolences.
ReplyDeletedeath of Mandela the end of an ara
ReplyDeletehope our leaders are willing to learn from him
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