“I was not a messiah, but an ordinary man who had become a leader because of extraordinary circumstances.” – Nelson Mandela. This quote by Nelson Mandela shows one of his many great qualities. It shows his humbleness and his strength. Nelson Mandela is more than a leader but also a hero. With patience, knowledge and selflessness, Nelson Mandela started a movement to unify a separated nation and ameliorate decades of pain and racism. Throughout his life, Nelson Mandela made his share of mistakes. Although, he chose to learn from these mistakes rather than repeat them. This personal integrity was a quality that helped in South’s Africa’s first democratic presidential election and ameliorated the fears of a nation in turmoil. Although, Mandela’s …show more content…
His use of violence would continue for two years until 1962 when he was arrested for traveling without a passport. A few years after he was arrested he was sentence to life on Robben Island for his actions towards the government. As soon as he got to the prison, he began practicing no-violent methods to resist the prison guards. He also established methods to help prevent the prisoners from feeling the psychological burdens of being a victim in prison. Although their bodies had to endure harsh working condition, he made sure their minds remained sharp. Mandela assigned a member within each group to instruct and education other members on topics such as history, economics, politics, and philosophy. In addition, their free time was used for educational and cultural sessions. This included signing and theater performances. During his 27 years in prison, Mandela became the most important leader for Black South Africans. On February 10, 1990, the newly appointed president, F.W. de Klerk, approved Mandela his freedom after many secret conversations. During the following two years there were many violent massacres, assassinations and tense negotiations. Although Mandela still considered violence as a potential method for resisting against apartheid, he chose to promote peaceful negotiations with de Klerk. Eventually they persisted and apartheid ended. Mandela, de Klerk and the other …show more content…
His term in office was used to transition his nation into a democracy and improve the racial tensions. One of Mandela’s greatest characteristics was his determination and courage. He voluntarily retired from his presidency after one term. Although, he was still involved in many social and humanitarian events. “I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb…But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom come responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended.” – Nelson