In today’s blog, I will be discussing Nelson Mandela and his impact on Black History. I have been fascinated with learning about Nelson Mandela ever since I first heard his name, back in a class in primary school.
Nelson Mandela is one of the most famous names in the field of Black History, and he was also the first Black President of South Africa. He has been a very large inspiration on my life and in commemoration of this, I am going to be recalling some of his biggest historical moments below:
- Nelson Mandela grew up in South Africa, a country that has had a lot of problems in the past with racial discrimination, despite having a very diverse collection of different cultures and people. This is when Nelson Mandela felt that everyone should be treated equally and this is one of the biggest ways that he inspires me, the strive and belief he has in equality.
- In 1944, Nelson Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANS), a political group striving for equal rights for all whites and blacks in the country. He then became a very important member within the group.
- In 1956, he was arrested by the local authorities for treason/betraying the country’s government.
- In 1961, Nelson Mandela with the other ANC leaders formed a secret military group known as the Spear of the Nation.
- Over time, Nelson Mandela became a famous prisoner and the whole world called to ‘Free Nelson Mandela!’
- In 1989, the president of South Africa, FR de Klerk, came and met Nelson Mandela and by 1990 set him free from prison.
- In 1991, Nelson became President of the African National Congress and worked with the FR de Klerk to end the apartheid.
- Both of them worked together for a more peaceful place in South Africa which led them to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
- The most important year in history was the 1994 general election in South Africa and this was the election where all races are eligible to vote for the next President to lead South Africa.
- 1994 was one of the years with recorded history made by Nelson Mandela as he became the first Black President in South Africa. This brought the equality in the country with everyone living together in peace and harmony and this showed the hard work that Nelson Mandela has done over the years had succeeded.
At the same time, this is my honest opinion too. Everyone on this planet must be treated equally, no matter what gender, age or category group you are. Everyone is equal and nobody is higher than one another and this is really important to portray equality and this helps to maintain good relationship, peace, harmony and unity with those you live with and those around you.
Hope this blog not only inspires myself but also inspires you that Nelson Mandela was one of the most famous people in Black History and the fact that he changed the world for a better future starting in South Africa.
Hope you enjoyed the blog and I would love to hear your comments below!
Written by Pok Lim Lai.