Nelson Mandela

A man who needs no introduction, Mandela served 27 years in prison before becoming the first president of South Africa to be elected by a multi-racial vote. Mandela completed his Bachelor of Laws degree by correspondence from the University of London while incarcerated, though had his education privileges revoked for four years after it was discovered he had written an autobiography, something that was forbidden for inmates at the time. He also used his time to steer younger black political prisoners away from anti-white racism, instead focusing on a platform of reconciliation. His autobiography, 'Long Walk to Freedom, was released in 1994.

‘As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison." Nelson Mandela

Newcastle Libraries · Nelson Mandela

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