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Nelson Mandela
The Journey of a Man - Leader of a Free Nation
1990s - From Civil Unrest to Historical Victory
Upon Mandela's release from prison, the white minority resisted calls
for the country's first open election and violence erupted. Rivalries between
black political parties exploded into vicious fighting. Soon, South
Africa stood on the brink of civil war.
Using the force of his moral integrity, Mandela worked to unite his divided country, urging South Africans to seek reconciliation, not revenge. Mandela, along with South African President F.W. de Klerk, received the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their joint efforts. 
Nelson Mandela continued pushing for true democracy and the right to vote for
all. South Africa's first free election would take place April 26, 1994 and
Nelson Mandela would run for President. For black South Africans, including Mandela,
it was the first time ever they could vote.
In May 1994, after an overwhelming victory, Mandela was inaugurated as the first black president of South Africa. He appointed F.W. de Klerk, his formal rival, one of two vice presidents. Nelson Mandela made clear that he would lead a racially mixed government to reconciliation. Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one or another. The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement. Let freedom reign. God bless South Africa. —Nelson Mandela, Inaguration Speech, Pretoria, May 10, 1994 During this time of political triumph, Mandela's personal life went through a series of changes — Mandela and Winnie formally divorced in 1996. Nelson Mandela married Graca Machel, the widow of Mozambique's president — their vows were her present to him on his 80th birthday in 1998. In 1999 Nelson Mandela stepped down from his role as president and has spent the last year touring the world as a global statesman. 
Have you ever been inspired by a great leader? How has their story effected your life? Share your story with others.
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