Nelson Mandela is one of the most notable figures of the past century. His impact on society and his fellow man was so great that he has become almost synonymous with the fight against Apartheid and white supremacy in South Africa. This is because, while many other activists were locked up in prison or hiding underground to avoid arrest, Mandela stayed above ground with a public face, speaking out against injustice at every opportunity. It’s no wonder then that ‘Determination’ seems to be one of the key words associated with Mr. Mandela, both personally and politically. Let’s take a look into how this trait helped him rise above all others during such a difficult time for his country…
Dream & Determination made Mandela Famous
"A winner is a dreamer who never gives up." - Nelson Mandela
What is Determination?
Determination is the act of persisting with a task or goal in the face of challenges or obstacles, in other words Nelson Mandela. If you are determined, you are committed to sticking with a particular course of action, regardless of the difficulties that might lie ahead. At its core, determination is about having the strength to follow through with your goals and dreams, and we will see how Nelson did this throughout his life.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela
Continuing the Fight After Being Sent to Prison
After the ANC (African National Congress) was outlawed in 1950, Nelson Mandela and other activists continued to organize against the growing segregation of black and white people in South Africa. When the government cracked down and issued a warrant for his arrest in 1962, Mandela went underground to continue his activist work. However, he was soon caught and charged with inciting a strike and leaving the country illegally. Nelson was sent to prison for life, but he didn't let that stop his fight against Apartheid( a policy or system of segregation or discrimination on grounds of race),
In his cell, he continued to read, write and organize, advocating for the rights of black South Africans. When the government offered to release him if he promised to end his political activities, he refused, saying that he would NOT end his fight until the END OF APARTHEID.
"It is in your hands, to make a better world for all who live in it." - Nelson Mandela
Becoming the Most Famous Black Man in South Africa
While in prison, his reputation and fame grew and he became known as the ‘Black Pimpernel’ of South Africa, although this nickname was also used to refer to other activists at the time. In a country where Apartheid was becoming more and more extreme, his fame grew as he became known as one of the fiercest advocates for equality, regardless of race.
"Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice." - Nelson Mandela
Continuing the Fight After Receiving a Mandatory Sentence
Although the police and security forces were looking for ways to silence the Black Pimpernel, he continued to speak out for racial equality and release from prison. Though he received the mandatory life sentence, that did not stop him from speaking out. In the late 1960s, the government found a new way to silence him: they brought in a new law that required all political prisoners to serve their sentences in their entirety, without the possibility of parole. Although the law didn't apply to other prisoners, the government was hoping that it would silence Mandela.
"What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others." - Nelson Mandela
Determination Led to Freedom for Millions of People
As the 1970's rolled around, the tide of public opinion in South Africa began to turn against the government, and the government's fight against Nelson Mandela began to look more and more desperate. Eventually, the South African government realized that they needed to do something or risk losing all credibility. They decided to release Nelson Mandela from prison - although he had been in prison for 27 years! They had also realized that continuing to silence Nelson Mandela would only add to his growing fame. As soon as he was released from prison, he became a national hero and a symbol of the fight against Apartheid.
"I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles." - Nelson Mandela
Summing Up
Nelson Mandela's Determination was what allowed him to achieve greatness, even when it seemed that nothing was going his way. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality and freedom for all helped to end Apartheid in South Africa, and allowed for racial harmony among the people. He became a national hero and a symbol of the fight against Apartheid, and South Africans will be forever grateful for everything he did for them. Hence it's not surprising that determination made Mandela famous.
"We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right." - Nelson Mandela
You and Nelson Mandela have a lot in common, yes you the reader. A human being made with gifts and talents to add value to the world. Unfortunately, the cemetery is full of potential because many people decide to live contrary to their calling. Fortunately for you, there is hope! You have life and thus an opportunity to make a difference to the people around you. It doesn't matter the mistakes you have made in the past. It doesn't even matter if you lack resources. With a willing heart and faith in the one who created you to do awesome things, you can accomplish your God given destiny.
Decide on a path and Stik Wid It! I personally use my "Stik Wid It" t-shirt as a physical reminder to focus on my talent and goals. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison! How then is Mandela Famous? He stuck with his dreams in the hard times. Despite your set backs you can do it too - not be Nelson Mandela, but the best version of yourself and the most famous You!
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