Nelson Mandela

The story, in brief.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist, who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the country's first black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election. His government focused on dismantling the legacy of apartheid by tackling institutionalised racism and fostering racial reconciliation. Ideologically an African nationalist and socialist, he served as President of the African National Congress (ANC) party from 1991 to 1997. He is held in deep respect within South Africa, where he is often referred to by his Xhosa clan name, Madiba, and described as the Father of the Nation.

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A life in milestones.

Selected records from Wikidata. Ages are approximate; “c.” marks uncertain dates. This is a starting point for exploration, not a complete life history.

1. 1918
   Life

   Born in Mvezo

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2. 1979~ age 61
   Recognition

   Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding

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3. 1990~ age 72
   Recognition

   Lenin Peace Prize

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4. 1991~ age 73
   Recognition

   Order of José Martí

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5. 1992~ age 74
   Recognition

   Atatürk International Peace Prize

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6. 1994~ age 76
   Recognition

   Gold Olympic Order

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7. 1999~ age 81
   Recognition

   Honorary doctor of Leiden University

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8. 1999~ age 81
   Recognition

   Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia

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9. 2002~ age 84
   Recognition

   Order of Mapungubwe in Platinum

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10. 2005~ age 87
    Recognition

    Honorary Doctor at Karolinska Institutet

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11. 2013~ age 95
    Recognition

    honorary citizen of Paris

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12. 2013~ age 95
    Life

    Death

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