Throughout his life, Mandela fought for freedom and justice, which landed him in prison for 27 years. In 1964, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for planning to overthrow South Africa’s apartheid regime. Mandela was sent to Robben Island, where he spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment. He was released in 1990 and worked tirelessly to eradicate racism in the country.
Nelson Mandela became South Africa’s first black president in 1994, uniting the country. His government focused entirely on reconciliation, healing old wounds, and promoting equality for all South Africans.
Nelson Mandela International Day 2024: History
Despite spending many years in prison, Mandela continued to fight against racism and became a catalyst for ending apartheid and promoting reconciliation. He was a strong preacher of compassion and forgiveness and believed in the interconnectedness of humanity. His leadership influenced not only South Africa but the entire world. He envisioned a world free of oppression, poverty, and inequality which inspired global efforts for peace and equality and made his birthday a powerful symbol of positive change.
In honor of this great soul, the United Nations designated July 18 as “Nelson Mandela International Day” in 2009. This global celebration promotes peace and freedom while celebrating his life and work. The first Nelson Mandela International Day was observed on July 18, 2010.
What is the theme of Nelson Mandela International Day 2024?
This year, the theme of celebrating Nelson Mandela International Day 2024 is ‘Combating poverty and inequality is in our hands.’
Death of Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela died at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, on 5 December 2013 at approximately 20:50 local time (UTC+2). Then-President Jacob Zuma announced Nelson Mandela’s death on national television at 23:45. International organizations, governments, and notable individuals received media coverage around the world.
quotes from nelson mandela
- “it always seems impossible until it’s done.”
- “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
- “I learned that courage does not mean the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.”
- “The brave man is not he who is not afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
- “For to be free does not mean merely casting off your chains, but living in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
- “Don’t judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fall down and get back up.”
- “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.”
- “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”
- “We should use time wisely and always keep in mind that the time is always right to do the right thing.”
- “I am not a saint unless you look at the saint as a sinner who keeps trying.”
- “There’s nothing like returning to a place that has remained unchanged to discover the ways in which you yourself have changed.”
- “Overcoming poverty is not an act of charity, it is an act of justice.”
- “I dream of an Africa that is at peace with itself.”
- “It is said that no man can truly know a nation until he has been inside its prisons.”
- “When we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same.”
- “Lead from behind – and let others believe they are in front.”
- “Money won’t bring success, but the freedom to create it will.”
- “A good mind and a good heart are always a formidable combination.”
- “No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, his background or his religion.”
- “There is no passion in playing small — in settling for a life that is less than what you are capable of living.”
first published: July 18th 2024 | 12:32 pm First
