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“Mandela and De Klerk have chosen reconciliation rather than the alternative,
which would inevitably have been an ever more bitter and bloodier conflict. Another
aspect of the policy of reconciliation is compromise and the recognition that
one must give in order to be able to take. Political action on this
basis reflects the highest political virtue. But in order to attain success,
all parties must be willing to sacrifice.“
Excerpts from presentation speech by Francis Sejersted, Chairperson of
the Norwegian Nobel Committee, 1993
Nelson Mandela was educated at the University College of Fort Hare and
the University of the Witwatersrand, where he qualified in law in 1942.
He joined the African National Congress in 1944.
As a young man, Mandela involved himself wholeheartedly in leading civil
resistance, helping to organize strikes, protest marches, demonstrations
and encouraging people to defy discriminatory laws. Mandela and others
were sentenced to life imprisonment at the Rivonia trial in 1964. Their
prison, Robben Island became a centre of learning and debate. He twice
rejected government offers of freedom, which would have compromised his
standing and credibility as a leader.
In 1993, together with De Klerk,
he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in promoting a democratic
South Africa.
- Mandela involved himself wholeheartedly in leading civil
resistance.
- In the aftermath of the banning of the ANC and the Sharpeville
massacre in 1960, Mandela was detained. During his long 27 years
in prison, Mandela never faltered in his resolve - leading by example.
Robben Island became a centre of learning and debate.
Read more about Nelson Mandela...
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