summary of Nelson Mandela long walk to freedom
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Long Walk to Freedom is an autobiography written by South African President Nelson Mandela, and first published in 1994 by Little Brown & Co.The book profiles his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison. Under the apartheid government, Mandela was regarded as a terrorist and jailed on the infamous Robben Island for his role as a leader of the then-outlawed African National Congress (ANC). He later achieved international recognition for his leadership as president in rebuilding the country's once racist society.The last chapters of the book describe his political ascension, and his belief that the struggle still continued against apartheid in South Africa.
Mandela dedicated his book to "my six children, Madiba and Makaziwe (my first daughter) who are now deceased, and to Makgatho, Makaziwe, Zenani and Zindzi, whose support and love I treasure; to my twenty-one grandchildren and three great-grandchildren who give me great pleasure; and to all my comrades, friends and fellow South Africans whom I serve and whose courage, determination and patriotism remain my source of inspiration."
⠀⠀⠀⠀☆Summary☆
On that day the author was in the company of his daughter Zenani. Mr. De Klerk was first sworn in as second deputy President. Then Thabo Mbeki was sworn in as first deputy President. It was the author’s turn then. He was sworn in as the President. He pledged to obey and uphold the constitution. He also pledged to devote himself to the well-being of the people.
The author spoke of the newborn liberty. He thanked all the international guests. He said that they had come there to be with his countrymen. It was the common victory for justice, peace and human dignity. He pledged to liberate his people from poverty, suffering and discrimination.
After a few moments colourful South African jets and helicopters flew over the Union Buildings there. It was for military’s loyalty to democracy for a new govt. Then the highest military generals having medals on their chests saluted the author. He thought that they would have arrested him many years before.
The day was symbolised for the author by the playing of two national anthems. The whites sang ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ and the blacks sang ‘Die Stem’. These formed the old anthems of the republic.
On that day of the inauguration, the author thought of history. In the first decade the South African people had patched up their differences wifti other black-skinned people. They had built a system of superiority also. It was the basis of the harshest societies. This system had now stood overturned. Now it was the system that recognised the rights and freedoms of all people.
This auspicious day came after the sacrifices of thousands of the people. The author thought of himself the sum of all those people. He was pained that he couldn’t thank them.
The policy of apartheid created a lasting wound in his country and his people. This policy had produced great freedom fighters. They were like Oliver Tambos, Walter Sisulus, Chief Luthulis, Yusuf Dadoos etc. They were men of uncommon courage, wisdom and generosity. The country was rich in minerals. But its greatest wealth was its people.
From these people the author learned the meaning of courage. They risked their lives. They underwent great torture. He learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the victory over it.