Nelson Mandela

On Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday, my daughter’s friend said she didn’t know who he was. When I explained that he was the leader of the African National Congress, and then President of South Africa, she replied “How would I know about that, and why should I?”

Personally, I think Mandela’s story is compelling. He fought against his country’s unjust policies of Apartheid. When he was tried and convicted for his role in the antiaparthied effort, he spoke of how he would give his life for democracy. After 27 years in the jails of South Africa, he was released. Instead of anger and bitterness, he led his country through the Truth and Reconciliation process. There should be more leaders with Nelson Mandela’s vision.

Links

Mandela Celebrates his 90th birthday: Link

Wikipedia bio: Link

Nobel Prize bio: Link

Nelson Mandela Foundation: Link

Time 100 Entry on Nelson Mandela: Link

NPR audio about his trial: Link