Democracy
and Human Rights
Inauguration speech of Nelson Mandela
At a Glance
·
Between
1948 and 1991, South Africans lived under a formal system of racial segregation
and white supremacy known as apartheid.
·
Nelson
Mandela (1918–2013), an anti-apartheid leader, was tried in 1963 for sabotage,
treason, and conspiracy to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life
in prison.
·
Mandela
and the anti-apartheid movement became celebrated causes outside of South
Africa. Many nations condemned apartheid by imposing strict economic sanctions,
which crippled the South African economy.
·
Negotiations
for ending apartheid began in the 1980s, and Mandela was released from prison
in 1990. In 1994 he was elected as South Africa's first black president.
·
In
his inaugural speech Mandela appealed to all South Africans and called for
reconciliation and nation-building instead of revenge.
·
Mandela
wished to inspire black South Africans and reassure white people about the
future of South Africa under black-majority rule. He presented a vision of
justice and security for all.
·
Mandela
stressed the common bonds of all South Africans, emphasizing love for the
beautiful land they share.
·
Racial
tensions in South Africa eased but were not erased during Mandela's presidency
(1994–1999). Yet, Mandela's practical leadership helped the country avoid a
racial civil war and led to the creation of a more inclusive and democratic
nation.
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