FW: WRITING

NELSON MANDELA

 

Nelson Mandela is one of the most iconic characters in the history of South Africa. He is an anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician and philanthropist, and was president of his country from 1994 to 1999.

 

Nelson Mandela was born in Qunu on July 18, 1918. His father was Henry Mgadla Mandela, and Nelson was the result of his relationship with his third wife, Nonqaphi Nosekeni Fanny. His mother tongue was Xhosa, and was initially called  'Rolihlahla', that means "troublemaker". When he was studying in the mission school, his teacher called him "Nelson" to recognize on a name in English. Also, he studied high school in Union College of Fort Hare, and laws in Johannesburg as a college career.

 

Nelson had 3 wifes: the first was Eveling Ntoko, who divorced in 1957, after 14 years of marriage. She died in 2004 because of a pneumonia. His second wife was Winnie Madikizela and they had 2 daughters, Zenani and Zindziswa. They divorced on 1996. Finally, in 1998, he married Graca Machel, widow of Samora Machel, ex-president of Mozambique.

 

Mandela was an activist against the government of the South African National Party, who introduced the policy of apartheid. This measure prevented people of color to access to education and housing. After protests and clashes, Mandela was arrested in 1962 and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was in prison for 27 years, during which his fame grew worldwide. In 1990 he is released. That's when he started his struggle for the democratization of his country. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.

 

The elections of 1994 became Mandela in the first black president of his country, and launched a policy of national reconstruction and reconciliation. That´s when he wrote his autobiography: Long Walk to Freedom.

 

Despite having become in one of the most famous people in the world, Mandela enjoyed the sunsets and classical music. Also, he donated money to children´s charities. Since 2010, Nelson Mandela was rarely seen because of their health status. In December 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela died in Johannesburg, after five months in critical condition.

 

Mandela was a tireless worker in the pursuit of equality and justice, and one of the most inspiring men known to mankind. His dedication and work are actions not forget throughout history.

 

 

 

SUSAN CHOMBO BRUNO