The life of one of the world's most admirable statesman since the World War 2, began in a little village in South Africa 18. Juli 1918. On this date Nelson Mandela was born. Nelson Mandela was the first South African President to be elected in a fully representative democratic election, and served as President from the period 1994-1999. The story of Nelson Mandela, his adversity and achievements through the years, is very significant and admirably impressive. Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1944, fighting against the ruling National Party's apartheid policies. In 1960 the ANC was banned and Mandela started a campaign that became the beginning of the formation of Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the nation). This group represented the military part of the ANC that fought against the African apartheid government and was categorized as a terrorist group. Mandela was convicted for treason in June 1964 and arrested for his involvement and activism as an anti-apartheid activist. He spent 27 years in prison, most of them at Robben Island. He was released on February 1990. But the years in captivity did not wear Mandela down. He came out stronger then ever. With his party he started the negotiations that would lead to the multi-racial democracy in 1994.It is clear how Mandela's political involvement has been of great and vital importance regarding the abolishment of the apartheid government. But what amazes me is how he came back after 27 years in prison with a fresh and innocent mind, filled with forgiveness, goodness and hope for the future. During his presidency he frequently gave priority to reconciliation. In 1994, at the election that would make him President, he said:
"This is for all South Africans an unforgettable occasion. It is the realization of their hopes and dreams that we have cherished for decades. We are starting a new era of hope, of reconciliation, of nation-building." I like this paragraph because the message is peace and reunion of South-Africa as one nation. I believe Mandela's ability and willingness to forgive his captors and oppressors after his release was absolutely decisive to what would happen next. He became the better man, he became a good example and role-model for his people. How would things have turned out if Mandela came back from Robben Island with hate, fury and revenge on his mind? Thankfully, we will never know.
