Nelson Mandela

Easton Press Nelson Mandela books

Long Walk to Freedom : The Nelson Mandela Autobiography - Signed Limited Edition - 2001

 

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, born on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo in South Africa, emerged as one of the towering figures of the 20th century, revered for his lifelong dedication to the principles of freedom, equality, and justice. As a leader in the struggle against apartheid, Mandela's unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and reconciliation transformed him into a global symbol of the fight for human rights and social justice. Mandela grew up in the rural Eastern Cape province, where he was exposed to the injustices of the apartheid system from an early age. Despite facing discrimination and oppression, he excelled in his studies, eventually earning a law degree from the University of Fort Hare and later studying law at the University of the Witwatersrand.

In 1944, Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC), a political organization dedicated to fighting for the rights of black South Africans. Over the years, he rose through the ranks of the ANC, becoming increasingly involved in the struggle against apartheid and the oppressive policies of the South African government. Mandela's activism and leadership made him a target of the apartheid regime, and he was arrested and imprisoned multiple times for his political activities. In 1964, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in advocating for armed resistance against the government. Despite spending 27 years behind bars, Mandela remained steadfast in his commitment to the principles of freedom and equality. His imprisonment only served to elevate his status as a symbol of resistance and resilience, galvanizing support for the anti-apartheid movement both domestically and internationally.

In 1990, Mandela was released from prison amid growing pressure from the international community and a shifting political landscape in South Africa. He emerged as a unifying figure in the country's transition to democracy, leading negotiations with the apartheid government that ultimately resulted in free and fair elections in 1994.

In a historic moment, Mandela was inaugurated as South Africa's first black president on May 10, 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era of democracy and reconciliation. As president, Mandela worked tirelessly to heal the wounds of the past, promoting national unity and reconciliation through initiatives such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Throughout his life, Mandela remained committed to the values of forgiveness, compassion, and reconciliation, earning him the respect and admiration of people around the world. In 1993, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to dismantle apartheid and establish a democratic South Africa. Nelson Mandela passed away on December 5, 2013, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations to strive for justice, equality, and human dignity. His life serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of hope, perseverance, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Long Walk to Freedom

Long Walk to Freedom chronicles the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela, from his humble beginnings in rural South Africa to his emergence as a global icon of freedom and reconciliation. Written by Mandela himself and published in 1994, the autobiography provides a compelling firsthand account of his lifelong struggle against apartheid and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Born into the Thembu royal family on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo, Mandela was exposed to the injustices of apartheid from an early age. Despite facing discrimination and oppression, he pursued an education, eventually becoming involved in the anti-apartheid movement as a young man.

In Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela recounts his experiences as a political activist, his role in founding the African National Congress Youth League, and his leadership in the fight against apartheid. He vividly describes his time as a lawyer, his involvement in the Defiance Campaign and the Treason Trial, and his eventual imprisonment for his political beliefs. The heart of the book, however, lies in Mandela's 27-year imprisonment on Robben Island and other locations. Through his eloquent prose, Mandela offers poignant reflections on the isolation, hardship, and resilience of those years, as well as the bonds of friendship and solidarity that sustained him and his fellow prisoners.

Long Walk to Freedom also documents Mandela's pivotal role in negotiating an end to apartheid and his election as South Africa's first black president in 1994. Mandela reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his presidency, his efforts to promote reconciliation and nation-building, and his vision for a free and democratic South Africa.

Throughout the autobiography, Mandela emerges as a towering figure of moral courage, humility, and wisdom. His commitment to nonviolence, forgiveness, and reconciliation serves as a powerful example to people around the world, inspiring hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Long Walk to Freedom stands as a testament to Mandela's enduring legacy as a champion of freedom and justice. As he writes in the book's conclusion, "I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb." Published at a pivotal moment in South Africa's history, Long Walk to Freedom continues to resonate with readers as a timeless testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the human spirit.

Nelson Mandela quotes

Nelson Mandela was known for his eloquence and wisdom. The following are some memorable quotes attributed to him.

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear."

"It always seems impossible until it's done."

"For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others."

"No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite."

"Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again."

"I dream of an Africa which is in peace with itself."

"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead."

"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership."

"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."


These quotes capture the essence of Nelson Mandela's wisdom, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality.