“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.” — Nelson Mandela

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013)

Nelson Mandela International Day also called the Mandela Day is celebrated every year on July 18 not just by the citizens of South Africa, but the entire world. He was the first president of a democratic South Africa, and ardently worked towards restoring the country’s economy. Mandela was also the face of the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. On Mandela Day, people reflect upon the legend’s leadership and devotion to humanitarian causes. Mandela Day calls for global action to transform the world by emancipating people from the clutches of caste, creed, color and religion. On the occasion, let’s look at a few facts about the great leader and the Mandela Day.

Nelson Mandela International Day is an annual celebration observed in honour of anti-apartheid revolutionary Nelson Mandela.

This day is celebrated every year on July 18 on the occasion of Mandela’s birthday.

The day was officially declared as Mandela Day by the United Nations in November, 2009.

The first UN Mandela Day was observed on July 18, 2010.

Mandela Day is not a public holiday.

The day honours the legacy of Nelson Mandela and his values through volunteering and community service.

Mandela was born to the Thembu royal family in Mvezo, British South Africa. 

Mandela studied law at the University of Fort Hare and the University of Witwatersrand.

He then worked as a lawyer in Johannesburg.

Nelson Mandela served the President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.

He was the first black head of state and also the first elected in a fully representative democratic election.

Mandela’s government focused on abolishing apartheid and fostering racial reconciliation. 

Mandela served 27 years in different prisons, between Robben Island, Pollsmoor and Victor Verster Prison.

The then President of South Africa F. W. de Klerk released him in 1990, amid growing domestic and international pressures, and the looming threat of a racial civil war.

Mandela succumbed to a prolonged respiratory infection on December 5, 2013 at the age of 95.