Rolihlahla Mandela ,given the English name Nelson by a school teacher on the first day of school, was born on 18th July 1918 at the village of Mvezo in Umtatu to Gadla Henry Mphakanyiswa and Nosekini Fanny. Here's his life story: He's currently a resident at Houghton Estate,Johannesburg,Gauteng,South Africa.He married Graca Machel in 1998,Winnie Madikizela from 1957 to 1996 and Evelyn Ntoko from 1944 to 1957. He's also a proud father of Makgatho Mandela,Makaziwe Mandela,Zenani Mandela,Zindziswa Mandela and Maliba Thembekile Mandela.

Mandela was the first one from his family to attend a school from such a young age.He attended Head town Comprehensive School and for higher studies the University of London,University of Fort land,University of South Africa,University of Witwatersrand and University of London International Programmes. His main focus during university life was law.During his life at university, he was constantly a victim of racism.Yet, he learnt a lot while growing up. Due to his open-minded personality,he made a lot of liberal and communist friends.
After university , he grew up to be an anti-apartheid activist.Apartheid, 'the system of being apart' was a system of racial segregation established to maintain white supremacy. He joined the African National Congress in 1940's to establish a free society, democratic environment where everyone lives together in harmony and carry equal opportunities and rights.
He was arrested in July,1952 on charge of communism.Under the Apartheid regime, Mandela was regarded as a terrorist and jailed on the infamous Robben Island for 27 years.Even in jail,he was a victim of racism as blacks received the fewest rations.When he was released on 11th February,1990, it was broadcasted live all over the world.
He became the first black president of South Africa in 1994 to 1999.His speeches as a President usually carried out the message of freedom,equality and human dignity.
Mandela day is spent on his birthday, 18th July, it is an annual international day adopted by the UN.Individual communities and organizations are asked to donate 67 minutes to doing something for others,commemorating the 67 years that Mandela gave to struggle for justice.
As he says, "A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."

There are several books such as 'Mandela','In his own words' and 'Housing Generator' and movies such as 'Malcom X' based on his inspiring life.He has also written his autobiography titled 'Long Walk to Freedom'.Giving phenomenal insight into his mind,this book carries his thoughts, ideas,messages and experiences.He has also recieved 250 awards such as the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. He's reffered to as the 'Father of the Nation' within South Africa.