About Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela is one of the greatest moral and political leaders of our time. His fight against racial oppression in South Africa won him the Nobel Peace Prize and the presidency of his country. He is revered the world over for his strength, courage and bravery and for never giving up on his dream of equality despite serving 27 years in prison.  Today, Nelson Mandela continues the battle for human rights with countless thousands taking inspiration from his life of sacrifice. 

Books on Nelson Mandela
 

Mandela on Freedom

"Let freedom reign. The sun never set on so glorious a human achievement."

"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."

Mandela on Optimism

"I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death."

Mandela on Perseverance

"It always seems impossible until it's done."

"After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb."

"Does anybody really think that they didn't get what they had because they didn't have the talent or the strength or the endurance or the commitment?"

Mandela on Leadership

"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership."

Mandela on Education

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."

Mandela on Expectations

"Thinking too well of people often allows them to be better than they otherwise would."

Mandela on Wisdom

"A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination."

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."
 

Mandela on Courage

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear."