Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s anti-apartheid leader, spent 27 years in prison before becoming his country’s first Black president in 1994. His fight against racial segregation united millions, advocating reconciliation over revenge. As president, he established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to heal national wounds. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, he remains an icon of resilience and justice, with his birthday (July 18) celebrated globally as Mandela Day, encouraging community service.
Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s anti-apartheid leader, spent 27 years in prison before becoming his country’s first Black president in 1994. His fight against racial segregation united millions, advocating reconciliation over revenge. As president, he established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to heal national wounds. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, he remains an icon of resilience and justice, with his birthday (July 18) celebrated globally as Mandela Day, encouraging community service.