RIP Nelson Mandela

It is official, activist, political leader and philanthropist Nelson Mandela has died. At 95 years of age, I would say that he lived a really great, long life. As South Africa's first black "head of state" (or president) of South Africa, he did a lot to change the internal resistance to apartheid. He was one of the first leaders in the world to create his own social movement using a nonviolent approach. He also proved that you did not need to go to war to make changes, hence why he really embraced the passive resistance concept. 

In addition to being South Africa's first black leader from 1994 to 1999, Mandela was president of the ANC from 1991 until 1997. In the early 60's (I think 1964) Mandela actually went to prison, where he would serve 27 years until his release in 1990. Having been arrested for treason for simply advocating nonviolent approaches to violence, the former attorney then left the country. Eventually Mandela was released.

Having been one of few to want to combat the poverty problem in Africa, Mandela exhibited a commitment to the value of life, liberty and love. He wanted to genuinely help people and strongly believed in free speech. Personally I didn't agree with some of his political beliefs; however, he was very true to his beliefs and never put his country in a bad place nor made a decision to jeopardize the people. 

His story is quite fascinating and if you are looking to read an interesting one about a political figure, I definitely recommend that you read about Nelson Mandela. In 1999 he officially retired from all things political, but remained a strong advocate for many years up until his death today. 

Nelson Mandela was a man with a voice, a vision and a message. A message so powerful, he will forever be the force and the face for the change of the internal resistance of apartheid in Africa. 

Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela.

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