My Inspiration

 To me, one of the most inspirational people in the world is Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. 

     During Nelson Mandela's years of university he became very aware of the racism that non-white people faced, and so in 1943 he made the choice to join the ANC (the African National Congress) and very actively take part in trying to stop apartheid. Whenever the ANC would protest they would never have any intention of anyone getting hurt of injured.

     In 1956 156 members of the ANC including Nelson Mandela were arrested, and tried for treason. After a while the ANC was banned by the government, even after it was banned Nelson Mandela stayed in the ANC. 

In 1963 Nelson was put on trial again for treason. But only this time, the state succeeded in convicting of trying to overthrow the government. Mandela was sentence to death, but was changed to life imprisonments. 

During Nelson Mandela's time in prison he became very well known around the world, he was the best known black leader against apartheid. Since Nelson Mandela became so well known world wide, his continued imprisonment led to pressure for his release.

After 20 of Nelson Mandela being in jail, he was finally released on February 11 1990, this day was a huge day for South Africa, it meant that finally there was going to be an end to apartheid. In 1993 he was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for his works in trying to end discrimination and racial segregation, in 1994 he was finally elected the first President of South Africa.

Nelson Mandela retired from being president in 1999.

A movie was made about his journey called, Mandela: Long walk To Freedom.

     I am totally against racism and racial segregation , I believe that everyone is equally important and that everyone in the whole wide world no matter how they look, or what their race is, should have equal rights. I also believe that Nelson Mandela took a HUGE part in helping end apartheid in South Africa. He is very inspirational to me for all of his help, and work in trying and succeeding ending racial segregation. That is why Nelson Mandela is my inspiration.

Some Quotes From Nelson Mandela: 

"I've learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.  The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." 

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” 

“As I have said, the first thing is to be honest with yourself. You can never have an impact on society if you have not changed yourself... Great peacemakers are all people of integrity, of honesty, but humility.”