Nelson Mandela

Long walk to Freedom

Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as the country’s first Black president from 1994 to 1999. A key figure in the struggle against apartheid, Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his activism and emerged as a symbol of resistance, peace, and reconciliation. He played a pivotal role in dismantling institutionalized racism and fostering racial harmony in South Africa. “Long Walk to Freedom” is Mandela’s autobiography, detailing his early life, education, and 27-year imprisonment, as well as his fight for freedom and justice. The book provides a personal and profound insight into his journey, capturing his unwavering commitment to equality, courage, and humanity.

Q: Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?

Ans. The ceremonies took place at the Union building in Pretoria, South Africa. This is where Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the first black president of South Africa on May 10, 1994. In India, there are several public buildings that are made of sandstones such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and the Parliament House in Delhi etc.

Q: Can you say how 10 is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa?

Ans. 10th of May is considered an autumn day in South Africa because it is located in the Southern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Therefore, while May is a spring month in the Northern Hemisphere, it is autumn in South Africa.

Q: At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”. What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious … human achievement” he speaks of at the end?

Ans. By “an extraordinary human disaster,” Mandela is referring to the system of apartheid that caused immense suffering and injustice to the non-white population of South Africa. Apartheid was a policy of racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the government of South Africa from 1948 to 1994. The “glorious …. human achievement” he speaks of at the end refers to the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic and free society in South Africa, where all people are treated equally regardless of their race.

Q: What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?

Ans. Mandela thanks the international leaders for their presence that they have come to take possession with the people of South Africa of what is, after all, a common victory for justice, for peace and for human dignity. He also acknowledges their support, solidarity and their efforts in applying pressure on the South African government through sanctions and diplomatic isolation, which played a crucial role in bringing about the end of apartheid.

Q: What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?

Ans. Nelson Mandela sets out several ideals for the future of South Africa. He talks about equality, non-racist society, peace and reconciliation, economic and social justice and national unity. These ideals reflect Mandela’s vision of a just, fair, and inclusive society in South Africa.

Q: What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?

Ans. The military generals were initially a part of the oppressive regime enforcing apartheid, using their power to maintain status quo and suppress resistance movements. However, their attitude changed over time significantly. When Mandela was released and the subsequent negotiations for a democratic South Africa, the military generals are seen saluting him and displaying respect. This change was a result of the shifting political landscape and the recognition of Mandela’s leadership.

Q: Why were two national anthems sung?

Ans. The two national songs were sung to symbolize unity and reconciliation. “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika,” associated with the anti-apartheid movement and the black majority, and “Die Stem,” the anthem of the apartheid regime and the white minority, were both sung to represent the coming together of different races and communities in the new democratic South Africa.

Q: How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century?

Ans. Mandela described the government in the first decade of twentieth century as a colonial and segregationist regime, characterized by the systemic marginalization and oppression of the black majority. During this period, laws and policies were instituted to maintain white supremacy and control over the indigenous population. In the final decade of the 20th century, Mandela described the government as a democratic system that had finally dismantled the structures of apartheid. This decade saw the rise of a government that aimed to represent all South Africans. Characterized by principles of equality, freedom, and justice.

Q: What does courage mean to Mandela?

Ans. For Mandela, courage is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. He reflects on how brave individuals are not those who do not feel afraid but those who conquer their fears. This perspective highlights the internal struggle and the strength needed to face and overcome daunting challenges, especially in fight for justice and equality.

Q: Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate?

Ans. Mandela believes that love comes more naturally to the human heart than hate. He suggests that people are not born hating others; instead, they learn to hate through societal influences and conditions. Therefore, if people can learn to hate, they can also be taught to love, which is a more natural and fulfilling emotion.

Q: What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention?

Ans. One of the twin obligations Mandela mentions is the obligation to one’s family, parents, and children. This involves taking care of them, supporting them, and ensuring their welfare. The other obligation is to one’s people, his community and his country. This includes fighting for their rights, striving for their freedom, and contributing to their well-being and progress.

Q: What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student? How does he contrast these” transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”?

Ans. As a boy, freedom for Mandela meant being able to run in the fields near his mother’s hut, swim in clear stream, and roast maize under the stars. It was the simple, unrestricted joys of childhood, like being free from the rules imposed by the elders. As a student, freedom meant the ability to read what he liked, think what he liked, and talk to whoever he liked. It represented a form of intellectual freedom and independence that allow him to explore ideas and express his thoughts without restriction. Mandela refers to them as transitory freedoms. They are temporary, superficial freedoms of youth, which are often more about personal indulgence and immediate satisfaction. He contrasts these with basic and honorable freedoms. These are fundamental human rights and dignities, such as the right to live with dignity, the right to be respected, the right to equal opportunity, and the right to live free from fear and oppression. He considers them essential for the well being and fulfillment of an individual and are worth fighting for.

Q: Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/Why not?

Ans. Mandela believes that both the oppressed and the oppressor are robbed of their humanity. The oppressor is not free because they are bound by the system of oppression. The oppressor lives in constant fear of rebellion and retaliation from the oppressed, and this fear creates a psychological and moral imprisonment. Mandela argues that true freedom is not just the absence of overt physical oppression but also the liberation of the mind and spirit. The oppressor, by denying freedom to others, becomes a prisoner of hatred, prejudice, and narrow-mindedness, thus losing their humanity and inner peace. Therefore, both the oppressed and the oppressor need liberation for true freedom to be achieved.

Q: Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration?  What did it signify the triumph of?

Ans. A large number of international leaders attended Mandela’s inauguration on May 10, 1994, because it marked a historic moment in the fight against apartheid and the establishment of a democratic South Africa. The significance of this event lay in its representation of the triumph of justice, equality and reconciliation over decades of racial segregation and oppression. Mandela’s presidency symbolized a new era of hope, unity and international solidarity in support of human rights and democracy.

Q: What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him?

Ans. Mandela is actually acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices of countless individuals who fought against colonialism an apartheid. He sees himself as part of a larger movement, standing on the shoulders of previous generations of freedom fighters who paved the way for his leadership. Mandela honors their legacy and emphasizes that his achievements are not his alone, but the culmination of a collective struggle for freedom and justice.

Q: Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument?

Ans. Yes, the “depths of oppression” can indeed create “heights of character,” as adversity often brings out resilience, strength, and moral fortitude in individual and communities. Mandela illustrates this through his own experiences and those of his fellow prisoners on Robben Island. Mandela’s ability to forgive his oppressors and advocate for reconciliation upon his release, demonstrating profound personal growth and strength of character. In the same way, Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership in the American Civil Rights Movement, maintaining a commitment to non-violence and equality despite facing significant dangers and adversities is another example of such character.

Q: How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

Ans. Mandela’s understanding of freedom evolved significantly over time. When he was young, he viewed freedom in a more personal context, such as the ability to make his own choices and live without restrictions. When he became politically active in adulthood, his concept of freedom expanded to encompass the political liberation of all South Africa from the yoke of apartheid. During imprisonment, Mandela’s notion of freedom deepened further. He realized that true freedom involves not just the absence of oppression, but also the presence of justice, equality, and the ability for all individuals to live with dignity. After his release from prison, Mandela’s vision of freedom included reconciliation and nation-building, emphasizing the importance of collective freedom and the well being of the entire society.

Q: How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life?

Ans. Mandela’s “hunger for freedom” fundamentally shaped his life in several way. First of all, it drove him to join the African National Congress and become deeply involved in the anti-apartheid movement. His unyielding pursuit of freedom led to his arrest and long-term imprisonment. Despite the personal cost, Mandela’s commitment never wavered, and he used his time in prison to strengthen his resolve and leadership. His passion for freedom transformed him into an international symbol of resistance and moral authority. Upon his release, he played a crucial role in negotiating the end of apartheid and establishing a democratic South Africa. His lifelong dedication to freedom and equality left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for human rights and social justice worldwide.