Nelson Mandela, an iconic figure in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, led an extraordinary life marked by significant events that shaped the course of history. From his early activism to his presidency, this article explores the key moments in Mandela’s life that left an indelible mark on the world.
| Event | Date |
| Birth of Nelson Mandela | July 18, 1918 |
| Mandela joins African National Congress (ANC) | 1944 |
| Mandela’s involvement in the Defiance Campaign | 1952 |
| Mandela’s marriage to Evelyn Mase | 1944 |
| The Treason Trial | 1956-1961 |
| Mandela forms the armed wing of the ANC, Umkhonto we Sizwe | 1961 |
| Mandela goes underground to evade arrest | 1961-1962 |
| Mandela captured and sentenced to five years | August 5, 1962 |
| Mandela sentenced to life imprisonment | June 12, 1964 |
| Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die” speech | April 20, 1964 |
| Imprisonment on Robben Island begins | June 13, 1964 |
| International pressure for Mandela’s release | 1980s |
| Mandela’s 70th birthday celebrated globally | July 18, 1988 |
| Mandela’s release from prison | February 11, 1990 |
| Mandela elected ANC president | July 2, 1991 |
| Start of negotiations for a democratic South Africa | December 20, 1991 |
| Mandela awarded the Nobel Peace Prize | October 15, 1993 |
| First multiracial elections in South Africa | April 27, 1994 |
| Inauguration as South Africa’s first black president | May 10, 1994 |
| The Truth and Reconciliation Commission established | December 16, 1995 |
| Mandela steps down as president | June 16, 1999 |
| Mandela’s retirement and philanthropic work | 2000s |
| Mandela diagnosed with prostate cancer | 2001 |
| Mandela establishes the Nelson Mandela Foundation | 1999 |
| Mandela’s 90th birthday celebrated worldwide | July 18, 2008 |
| Mandela’s health declines, admitted to hospital | June 8, 2013 |
| Death of Nelson Mandela | December 5, 2013 |
| Mandela’s state funeral held in Qunu, South Africa | December 15, 2013 |
| Mandela remembered and honored globally | Ongoing |
| Death of Nelson Mandela | December 5, 2013 |
Conclusion
Nelson Mandela’s life was characterised by a number of noteworthy incidents that demonstrated his unshakable dedication to justice, equality, and peace. Mandela’s legacy continues to motivate generations by serving as a reminder of the value of fortitude, forgiveness, and the struggle for a better society. This comes from his activism, imprisonment, and administration.
