nelson madela History Timeline and Biographies

1918

Birth of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, a small village in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. His birth name was Rolihlahla Mandela, and he was the son of a local chief. This early connection to leadership influenced his future role in the fight against apartheid.

1944

Joining the African National Congress (ANC)

In 1944, Nelson Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC), a political organization aimed at ending the racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa. His involvement marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to fighting for the rights of black South Africans.

1952

Defiance Campaign and Arrest

Nelson Mandela played a key role in the Defiance Campaign launched by the ANC in 1952, which aimed to resist apartheid laws through nonviolent civil disobedience. His activism led to his arrest and subsequent conviction for violating apartheid laws, though he received a suspended sentence.

1961

Formation of Umkhonto we Sizwe

In 1961, Nelson Mandela co-founded Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the ANC, to carry out acts of sabotage against the apartheid government. This marked a significant shift in his approach to the struggle for freedom, advocating for armed resistance when peaceful protests failed.

1962

Arrest and Imprisonment

Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962 and subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in sabotage against the apartheid regime. He was imprisoned on Robben Island, where he spent 18 of his 27 years in confinement, becoming a symbol of resistance to apartheid.

1990

Release from Prison

Nelson Mandela was released from prison on February 11, 1990, following international pressure and internal unrest against apartheid. His release marked a pivotal moment in South African history, leading to the negotiations that would end apartheid.

1993

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded

In 1993, Nelson Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize alongside then-South African President F.W. de Klerk for their efforts to peacefully end apartheid and establish multiracial elections in South Africa. This recognition highlighted Mandela's commitment to reconciliation and peace.

1994

First Democratic Elections

In April 1994, South Africa held its first democratic elections, in which Nelson Mandela was elected as the country's first black president. His election represented a monumental shift in South Africa's political landscape and a victory for the anti-apartheid movement.

1995

Establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

Under Nelson Mandela's presidency, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established in 1995 to address the atrocities committed during apartheid. The commission aimed to promote healing and forgiveness among South Africans by uncovering the truth about past human rights violations.

1999

Retirement from Politics

Nelson Mandela stepped down as president in 1999 after serving one term. He chose to retire from active politics, focusing instead on humanitarian work and advocating for global peace and social justice issues, particularly in Africa.

2001

Launch of the Nelson Mandela Foundation

In 2001, Nelson Mandela established the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which focuses on promoting his legacy and addressing social justice issues, including education, health, and human rights, both in South Africa and globally.

2013

Death of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela passed away on December 5, 2013, at the age of 95. His death was mourned worldwide, and he was celebrated for his contributions to peace, freedom, and reconciliation, leaving behind a powerful legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

2018

Centenary Celebrations of Mandela's Birth

In 2018, the world celebrated the centenary of Nelson Mandela's birth, honoring his legacy through various events and initiatives aimed at promoting his values of justice, equality, and human rights across the globe.

2020

Global Recognition of Mandela's Legacy

In 2020, Nelson Mandela's impact on global human rights movements was recognized through various tributes and initiatives aimed at continuing his work. His principles of peace and reconciliation remain relevant in addressing contemporary social issues worldwide.