There is no greater hero than one that fights in tyrannical regimes and risk torture, imprisonment, and death. The life of Nelson Mandela was dedicated to overthrowing tyranny and injustice. His inspiring story teaches us unrelenting courage and the determination to overcome.
About Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was born in Mvezo, South Africa, to royalty. Mandela could have led a life of privileged. However, he was cut adrift from his family. He studied law in Johannesburg and continued to practice law there. Because of his role in the resistance, Mandela was jailed for 27 years. White apartheid did end during his captivity, and after his release Mandela was President from 1994 to 1999. Mandela died on 5 December 2013 at the age of 95 after a long battle with lung infection.
Popular Facts about Nelson Mandela
- Nelson was actually descended from African royalty. However, he was cut adrift from his family and had to rent a small room in Johannesburg, working while studying law at night. Mandela worked his way up and did not have any aid from his family at all after he ended up in Johannesburg.
- Mandela valued privacy and did not confide in many people. Mandela does not smoke or drink, and even made his own bed, even when he was already elected president. An austere and humble man, Mandela did not indulge in displays of wealth.
- Mandela’s birthday (July 18th) is proclaimed by the United Nations in 2009 as Nelson Mandela International Day. Mandela spent 67 years fighting for change, and people were encouraged on that day to dedicate 67 minutes to think of how they could affect change in their lives.
- Contrary to popular belief, Nelson Mandela was no Gandhi. His ultimate goal was peace, but he did not shy away from guns. Mandela was part of the armed resistance movement when he was arrested and jailed for 27 years. Africans respect Mandela for his willingness to use force and fight injustice, not pacifism. The use of guns and bombings were common in the resistance.
- Mandela actually did not play a huge part in active resistance. He was part of the armed resistance before his arrest, which lasted several years, but the main part of overthrowing apartheid happened when he was in prison. They rallied behind him as an icon and continued the fight on his behalf until apartheid was ended in 1991.
Nelson Mandela History Lessons | What Mind Muzic Offers
Watch and listen to our rap video and you will hear how Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) was a passionate leader in South Africa who demanded equal rights for everyone. You will also learn that after serving 27 years in prison for his protests against the apartheid, he was elected president and won a Nobel Peace Prize for his life’s work.
Why Learn More about Nelson Mandela through Mind Muzic?
Important historical figures like Nelson Mandela are remembered in song and rap at Mind Muzic. We have as part of our teaching staff talented graphic designers, musicians, songwriters, artists, audio engineers, producers, speakers, film producers, researchers, models, and more. We believe in learning history through music and rap is an excellent way to engage your students.
If you have any questions about our Black History Lessons, including Nelson Mandela lessons, do not hesitate to contact us today.