Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

The story is from Nelson Mandela's autobiography, 'long Walk to Freedom'. He mentions the historic occasion of his inauguration as South Africa's first black president. He always believed he had an obligation towards his people to fight for their equality and not be mistreated based on the colour of their skin. He voiced his thoughts in the book to give every person political emancipation, free from the bondage of poverty and discrimination.

Can you say how the 10th of May is an "autumn day" in South Africa? 

Generally, the harvest season is associated with 'autumn day' in South Africa because, on this day, the installation of South Africa's first democratic non-racial government took place in the presence of international leaders on South African soil. This event was the largest gathering ever on South African soil.

What does Mandela thank the International leaders for? 

Mandela thanked all the international leaders for witnessing the oath-taking ceremony. He felt extremely privileged to welcome them for having come far & wide, as it was not long ago when these leaders considered them outlaws. This event is a common victory for human dignity.

What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed? & why? 

The highest military generals of the South African defence force & Police saluted & pledged their loyalty to Mandela. This respect was of great significance. Otherwise, they would have put him behind bars. 

Their attitudes changed due to the struggles and sacrifices South Africa's freedom fighters put in. It brought about a massive change in their mindset to bring about peace & justice.

How did Mandela describe the system of the government of South Africa before and after? 

The whites of South Africa erected a government system of domination against the blacks of South Africa. Therefore this was the harshest & inhumane in the world. 

In the final decade of the 20th century, the previous system of government was overturned forever and was replaced by one which has rights and freedom equally regardless of their cover.

Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate? 

No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, background, or religion. People must learn to hate, and they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.

Describe the contrast between transitory freedom and honourable freedom according to Mandela. 

Like any other child, freedom meant being happy and leading an enjoyable life during childhood. When a young fellow becomes an adult, the fun activities of childhood or youth look transitory because all of these activities appear worthless from an adult perspective. 

When a person learns to earn his livelihood, he understands the fundamental & honourable freedom within the society in which he lives.