Nelson Mandela - Childhood Lessons

The black Africans were now equal to the whites and could control their own futures. His important role in African history is one that was greatly influenced by his childhood experiences, and will be remembered as one of determination and courage. It is said, “An acceptance of authority is the very denial of truth” –unknown, and to Mandela, this was a reality that would stand apart from everything else.

Although lessons learned from his father would reflect a more dangerous side of him, Nelson Mandela also gained a strong work ethic during his education. enced to life in prison and sent to Robben Island. Everyone with an opinion was valued, and the council of wise men listened to everybody. After the death of his father in 1927, his mother was forced to leave nine year old Mandela in the care of Chief Jogintaba Dalindyebo, regent of the Thembu people. Through these lessons from his father, Mandela was able to stand up for what was just and fair. Seen in his childhood, this incredible determination was a valuable asset to his cause.

Another element gained during his childhood, was his keen sense of fairness. During his time spent living with the regent in Mqhekezweni, Mandela observed the universal respect commanded by Jogintaba, during church each Sunday, and also during tribal meetings meant to discuss national matters. Later becoming the President of South Africa, Mandela had achieved his goal of banning apartheid for good. Growing up and understanding what democracy meant, he saw that it was good and he wanted the African people to be respected and treated with dignity. Here he was to receive an education. The league organized mass strikes, boycotts, and protests.