Without the leadership of Nelson Mandela, there is no doubt that South Africa would have descended into chaos. He turned the looming prospect of turmoil and upheaval into a beacon of light for the nations.

 

The amazing courage he exemplified in his lifetime, together with his great spirit, which enabled him to embrace his enemies — made him one of the greatest men in history — leading the way forward to peace and justice.

 

He was born into a tribal royal family, but spent his early years tending sheep in the hills. He became a boxer, then a lawyer.

 

He started the armed wing of the ANC, launching a course of armed struggle. He spent 27 years in brutal prisonment.

 

Upon his release from prison, he set South Africa not on a course of vengeance, but instead on a course of reconciliation. The Truth…