autobiography of nelson mandela class 10

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Biography of Nelson Mandela

Rolihlahla Mandela was born into the Madiba clan in the village of Mvezo , in the Eastern Cape, on 18 July 1918. His mother was Nonqaphi Nosekeni and his father was Nkosi Mphakanyiswa Gadla Mandela, principal counsellor to the Acting King of the Thembu people, Jongintaba Dalindyebo. In 1930, when he was 12 years old, his father died and the young Rolihlahla became a ward of Jongintaba at the Great Place in Mqhekezweni 1 .

Hearing the elders’ stories of his ancestors’ valour during the wars of resistance, he dreamed also of making his own contribution to the freedom struggle of his people.

He attended primary school in Qunu where his teacher, Miss Mdingane, gave him the name Nelson, in accordance with the custom of giving all schoolchildren “Christian” names.

He completed his Junior Certificate at Clarkebury Boarding Institute and went on to Healdtown, a Wesleyan secondary school of some repute, where he matriculated.

Mandela began his studies for a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University College of Fort Hare but did not complete the degree there as he was expelled for joining in a student protest.

On his return to the Great Place at Mqhekezweni the King was furious and said if he didn’t return to Fort Hare he would arrange wives for him and his cousin Justice. They ran away to Johannesburg instead, arriving there in 1941. There he worked as a mine security officer and after meeting Walter Sisulu, an estate agent, he was introduced to Lazer Sidelsky. He then did his articles through a firm of attorneys – Witkin, Eidelman and Sidelsky.

He completed his BA through the University of South Africa and went back to Fort Hare for his graduation in 1943.

Nelson Mandela (top row, second from left) on the steps of Wits University.

Meanwhile, he began studying for an LLB at the University of the Witwatersrand. By his own admission he was a poor student and left the university in 1952 without graduating. He only started studying again through the University of London after his imprisonment in 1962 but also did not complete that degree.

In 1989, while in the last months of his imprisonment, he obtained an LLB through the University of South Africa. He graduated in absentia at a ceremony in Cape Town.

Entering politics

Mandela, while increasingly politically involved from 1942, only joined the African National Congress in 1944 when he helped to form the ANC Youth League (ANCYL).

In 1944 he married Walter Sisulu’s cousin, Evelyn Mase, a nurse. They had two sons, Madiba Thembekile "Thembi" and Makgatho, and two daughters both called Makaziwe, the first of whom died in infancy. He and his wife divorced in 1958.

Mandela rose through the ranks of the ANCYL and through its efforts, the ANC adopted a more radical mass-based policy, the Programme of Action, in 1949.

Nelson Mandela on the roof of Kholvad House in 1953.

In 1952 he was chosen as the National Volunteer-in-Chief of the Defiance Campaign with Maulvi Cachalia as his deputy. This campaign of civil disobedience against six unjust laws was a joint programme between the ANC and the South African Indian Congress. He and 19 others were charged under the Suppression of Communism Act for their part in the campaign and sentenced to nine months of hard labour, suspended for two years.

A two-year diploma in law on top of his BA allowed Mandela to practise law, and in August 1952 he and Oliver Tambo established South Africa’s first black-owned law firm in the 1950s, Mandela & Tambo. 2

At the end of 1952 he was banned for the first time. As a restricted person he was only permitted to watch in secret as the Freedom Charter was adopted in Kliptown on 26 June 1955.

The Treason Trial

Mandela was arrested in a countrywide police swoop on 5 December 1956, which led to the 1956 Treason Trial. Men and women of all races found themselves in the dock in the marathon trial that only ended when the last 28 accused, including Mandela, were acquitted on 29 March 1961.

On 21 March 1960 police killed 69 unarmed people in a protest in Sharpeville against the pass laws. This led to the country’s first state of emergency and the banning of the ANC and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) on 8 April. Mandela and his colleagues in the Treason Trial were among thousands detained during the state of emergency.

During the trial Mandela married a social worker, Winnie Madikizela, on 14 June 1958. They had two daughters, Zenani and Zindziswa. The couple divorced in 1996.

Days before the end of the Treason Trial, Mandela travelled to Pietermaritzburg to speak at the All-in Africa Conference, which resolved that he should write to Prime Minister Verwoerd requesting a national convention on a non-racial constitution, and to warn that should he not agree there would be a national strike against South Africa becoming a republic. After he and his colleagues were acquitted in the Treason Trial, Mandela went underground and began planning a national strike for 29, 30 and 31 March.

In the face of massive mobilisation of state security the strike was called off early. In June 1961 he was asked to lead the armed struggle and helped to establish Umkhonto weSizwe (Spear of the Nation), which launched on 16 December 1961 with a series of explosions.

Madiba travelled with his Ethiopian passport.

On 11 January 1962, using the adopted name David Motsamayi, Mandela secretly left South Africa. He travelled around Africa and visited England to gain support for the armed struggle. He received military training in Morocco and Ethiopia and returned to South Africa in July 1962. He was arrested in a police roadblock outside Howick on 5 August while returning from KwaZulu-Natal, where he had briefed ANC President Chief Albert Luthuli about his trip.

He was charged with leaving the country without a permit and inciting workers to strike. He was convicted and sentenced to five years' imprisonment, which he began serving at the Pretoria Local Prison. On 27 May 1963 he was transferred to Robben Island and returned to Pretoria on 12 June. Within a month police raided Liliesleaf, a secret hideout in Rivonia, Johannesburg, used by ANC and Communist Party activists, and several of his comrades were arrested.

On 9 October 1963 Mandela joined 10 others on trial for sabotage in what became known as the Rivonia Trial. While facing the death penalty his words to the court at the end of his famous "Speech from the Dock" on 20 April 1964 became immortalised:

“ I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die. ” Speech from the Dock quote by Nelson Mandela on 20 April 1964

On 11 June 1964 Mandela and seven other accused, Walter Sisulu, Ahmed Kathrada, Govan Mbeki, Raymond Mhlaba, Denis Goldberg, Elias Motsoaledi and Andrew Mlangeni, were convicted and the next day were sentenced to life imprisonment. Goldberg was sent to Pretoria Prison because he was white, while the others went to Robben Island.

Mandela’s mother died in 1968 and his eldest son, Thembi, in 1969. He was not allowed to attend their funerals.

On 31 March 1982 Mandela was transferred to Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town with Sisulu, Mhlaba and Mlangeni. Kathrada joined them in October. When he returned to the prison in November 1985 after prostate surgery, Mandela was held alone. Justice Minister Kobie Coetsee visited him in hospital. Later Mandela initiated talks about an ultimate meeting between the apartheid government and the ANC.

A picture captured during a rare visit from his comrades at Victor Verster Prison.

Release from prison

On 12 August 1988 he was taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with tuberculosis. After more than three months in two hospitals he was transferred on 7 December 1988 to a house at Victor Verster Prison near Paarl where he spent his last 14 months of imprisonment. He was released from its gates on Sunday 11 February 1990, nine days after the unbanning of the ANC and the PAC and nearly four months after the release of his remaining Rivonia comrades. Throughout his imprisonment he had rejected at least three conditional offers of release.

Mandela immersed himself in official talks to end white minority rule and in 1991 was elected ANC President to replace his ailing friend, Oliver Tambo. In 1993 he and President FW de Klerk jointly won the Nobel Peace Prize and on 27 April 1994 he voted for the first time in his life.

On 10 May 1994 he was inaugurated as South Africa’s first democratically elected President. On his 80 th birthday in 1998 he married Graça Machel, his third wife.

True to his promise, Mandela stepped down in 1999 after one term as President. He continued to work with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund he set up in 1995 and established the Nelson Mandela Foundation and The Mandela Rhodes Foundation.

In April 2007 his grandson, Mandla Mandela, was installed as head of the Mvezo Traditional Council at a ceremony at the Mvezo Great Place.

Nelson Mandela never wavered in his devotion to democracy, equality and learning. Despite terrible provocation, he never answered racism with racism. His life is an inspiration to all who are oppressed and deprived; and to all who are opposed to oppression and deprivation.

He died at his home in Johannesburg on 5 December 2013.

1. Nelson Mandela's father died in 1930 when Mandela was 12 and his mother died in 1968 when he was in prison. While the autobiography Long Walk to Freedom says his father died when he was nine, historical evidence shows it must have been later, most likely 1930. In fact, the original Long Walk to Freedom manuscript (written on Robben Island) states the year as 1930, when he was 12.

2. have established that there were at least 2 other black owned law firms before Mandela and Tambo.

• CBSE Notes For Class 10
• CBSE Class 10 English Notes
• Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom Summary

CBSE Class 10 English First Flight - Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Summary & Notes

Summary of nelson mandela: long walk to freedom.

Chapter 2 of the Class 10 English textbook, ‘First Flight’, is titled Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. It is an autobiography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. He was the first black South African President, an anti-apartheid revolutionary and political leader who served the country from 1994 to 1999. Here, we bring you a summary of the prose in the form of CBSE Notes . Students can go through the prose summary of an extract from the “Long Walk to Freedom” book. It includes an illustration of Nelson Mandela’s inauguration ceremony and excerpts from his speech and the struggles he faced as a freedom fighter. CBSE Class 10 students can also refer to CBSE Class 10 English Prose Notes – Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom for their Board exam preparation.

Students can also go through  CBSE Essays  to improve their writing section of the English paper.

CBSE Class 10 English Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Summary

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom is an extract from the autobiography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela that describes the struggle for freedom of black people in South Africa. On 10th May 1994, Nelson Mandela took the oath as South Africa’s first Black President after more than three centuries of White rule. His party had won 252 out of the 400 seats in the first democratic elections in the history of South Africa.

Many dignitaries and political figures from several countries attended the inauguration ceremony that took place in the Union Buildings amphitheatre in Pretoria. In his speech, Mandela addressed all dignitaries respectfully and assured his fellow countrymen that his country would never experience similar suppression by one group over another. While taking his vow as the first black President, he established democracy in the country and said there would be no discrimination against people, irrespective of caste, colour, creed or race. He assured that the government would always treat all the people of the country with due respect and equality.

The lovely day of inauguration was symbolic for Mandela as the South African people sang two national anthems – the vision of whites sang ‘Nkosi Sikelel –iAfrika’ and the blacks sang ‘Die Stem’, the old anthem of the Republic. All these events reminded Mandela of how black-skinned people were exploited by white people earlier. He deeply felt the pain of his race and said that this type of suppression and racial domination of the white-skinned people against the dark-skinned people on their own land gave rise to one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever seen or known. He strongly believed that no person is born to hate the other person on the basis of skin colour, background or religion. However, people must learn to hate because if they learn to hate, they can be taught to love as well, as love comes more naturally to humans than hate. He also mentioned how a person becomes brave, not because he does not feel afraid, but because he knows how to conquer his fears.

Furthermore, Mandela stated that every man in life has two major obligations. The first one is his obligation towards his family, which includes his parents, wife and children, and the second is towards his motherland, countrymen and his community. Everyone is able to fulfil those obligations according to his own interests and inclinations. However, it was difficult to fulfil both these obligations as a black man in a country like South Africa before the democratic wave took over the nation by storm. When Mandela became an adult, he realised that freedom was merely an illusion and temporary in nature for the black-skinned people of his country. He felt that they were treated as slaves of exploitation, and all the people of his race were treated unfairly by the white-skinned people.

According to Mandela, freedom was indivisible for all. But the people of his colour and race were bound in chains of oppression and tyranny. He knew that the oppressor must be liberated just like the oppressed because a person who snatches another’s freedom is also a prisoner of similar oppression. Thus, the oppressor is not free too and feels shackled in the chains of oppression himself.

Conclusion of Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

In the chapter – Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom , we learnt that brave men are not those who never feel afraid but the ones who know how to conquer fear. Mandela strongly felt that every individual has certain duties and responsibilities towards his own country and community. We hope this CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Prose Summary of Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom must have helped students to get a brief idea about the chapter. Meanwhile, you can view BYJU’S website for more such interesting updates on CBSE and CBSE study material and access sample papers and question papers of different years while preparing for your Board examinations.

Frequently Asked Questions on CBSE Class 10 English Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Who was nelson mandela.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary political leader who served as the first president of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.

What are the consequences of oppression?

1. Lowers self-esteem 2. Shameful 3. Reduces life opportunities

What is ‘Die Stem’?

‘Die Stem’, also known as “The Call of South Africa”, is a former national anthem of South Africa.

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Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom Summary, Explanation, Word meanings Class 10

CBSE Class 10 English Chapter 2 ‘Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom, Line by Line Explanation along with Difficult Word Meanings from First Flight Book

Nelson Mandela   Class 10 – Here you can find the summary of  Nelson Mandela – long walk to freedom followed by explanation of the lesson along with the meanings of difficult words .

• Nelson Mandela Introduction
• Theme of the Lesson
• Nelson Mandela Summary
• Nelson Mandela Summary in Hindi
• Nelson Mandela Video Explanation
• Nelson Mandela Lesson Explanation
• Class 10 Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (Important) Question Answers 
• Class 10 Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom MCQs
• Class 10 Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Character Sketches

Nelson Mandela Class 10 Chapter 2

“it always seems impossible until it’s done.”, nelson mandela long walk to freedom  .

This chapter is an extract from the autobiography of Nelson Mandela (born- 18 July, 1918), the first Black President of South Africa. Excerpts from “Long Walk to Freedom” include a description of the inauguration ceremony, citations from his speech, his journey to being a freedom fighter, the struggle, along with a tribute to other freedom fighters and countless other people who fought for their freedom.   In South Africa, a brutal practice named “apartheid” was followed. Apartheid refers to discrimination between people on the basis of their race. It was one of the most brutal societies where dark-skinned people were deprived of their basic rights. This lesson gives us an overview as to how Nelson Mandela along with others, carved their way to a society where there will be no discrimination on the basis of their colour, caste, race, age or gender.

Class 10 English Chapter 2 Theme

The struggle for independence, equality, and justice is the subject of “Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” a chapter in the English textbook “First Flight” for Class 10. The chapter is a section taken from Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, a politician and anti-apartheid revolutionary from South Africa.

The chapter describes Mandela’s early years and his path to becoming a politically active member of the African National Congress (ANC), which battled against South Africa’s apartheid system. Additionally, it emphasises his 27-year incarceration for his political involvement, his eventual release, and his contribution to the nation’s transformation into a multiracial democracy after his release.

Mandela’s steadfast dedication to the struggle for freedom, equality, and justice is clear throughout the chapter. Despite the personal sacrifices he must make, he is committed to bringing about change and creating a more just society for everyone in South Africa. He also stresses the value of nonviolence and peacemaking in achieving these objectives.

Nelson Mandela Summary Class 10

Given below is the Summary of Nelson Mandela long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Chapter 2

This chapter is an extract from the autobiography of Nelson Mandela (born- 18 July, 1918), the first Black President of South Africa. It begins with the description of their inaugural ceremony which took place on the 10th of May 1994 where the entire nation along with many international leaders embraced the victory of a newly and fairly elected government. It involved speeches by the President and the two Deputy Presidents followed by an impressive air show of fighter jets and helicopters. Long ago, in the first decade of the twentieth century, white supremacy introduced the system of apartheid and made life a living hell for the dark-skinned population. It gave rise to one of the most inhumane societies of the world. Many people have struggled and sacrificed for basic human rights. The author expressed his desire to thank all those freedom fighters who couldn’t live to see this autumn day. He referred to the citizens as the greatest asset of the country. It is these people he gathered his courage from. Mandela believes that courageous is not the man who is fearless, but the man who has overcome fear. He also mentioned the two responsibilities every human has and how in order to fulfil his obligation towards the society, his obligation towards his family was neglected. He became a man of people when he realised that the idea of freedom was an illusion for him and people like him. It was then he joined the African National Congress and fought for his rights till he became the first black President of the nation. According to him, the oppressor is as much a prisoner as the oppressed. As soon as the former robs the oppressed of their freedom he, himself gets robbed of his humanity. Thus, the oppressor too, is not free.

Nelson Mandela Summary in Hindi 

यह अध्याय दक्षिण अफ्रीका के पहले अश्वेत राष्ट्रपति नेल्सन मंडेला (जन्म- 18 जुलाई, 1918) की आत्मकथा का एक अंश है। यह उनके उद्घाटन समारोह के विवरण के साथ शुरू होता है जो 10 मई 1994 को हुआ था, जहां पूरे देश ने कई अंतरराष्ट्रीय नेताओं के साथ एक नई और निष्पक्ष रूप से चुनी गई सरकार की जीत को गले लगाया था। इसमें राष्ट्रपति और दो उप राष्ट्रपतियों के भाषणों के बाद लड़ाकू जेट और हेलीकॉप्टरों का एक प्रभावशाली एयर शो शामिल था।

बहुत पहले, बीसवीं शताब्दी के पहले दशक में, श्वेत वर्चस्व ने रंगभेद की व्यवस्था की शुरुआत की और जीवन को काली -चमड़ी वाली आबादी के लिए एक जीवित नरक बना दिया। इसने दुनिया के सबसे अमानवीय समाजों में से एक को जन्म दिया। कई लोगों ने बुनियादी मानवाधिकारों के लिए संघर्ष और बलिदान दिया है। लेखक ने उन सभी स्वतंत्रता सेनानियों को धन्यवाद देने की इच्छा व्यक्त की जो इस शरद दिवस को देखने के लिए जीवित नहीं रह सके। उन्होंने नागरिकों को देश की सबसे बड़ी संपत्ति बताया। इन्हीं लोगों से उसने हिम्मत जुटाई।

मंडेला का मानना ​​है कि साहसी वह व्यक्ति नहीं है जो निडर है, बल्कि वह व्यक्ति है जिसने भय पर विजय प्राप्त कर ली है। उन्होंने प्रत्येक मनुष्य की दो जिम्मेदारियों का भी उल्लेख किया और समाज के प्रति अपने दायित्व को पूरा करने के लिए अपने परिवार के प्रति अपने दायित्व की उपेक्षा कैसे की। वह लोगों का आदमी बन गया जब उसने महसूस किया कि स्वतंत्रता का विचार उसके और उसके जैसे लोगों के लिए एक भ्रम था। यह तब था जब वह अफ्रीकी राष्ट्रीय कांग्रेस में शामिल हो गए और देश के पहले अश्वेत राष्ट्रपति बनने तक अपने अधिकारों के लिए लड़े। उनके अनुसार, उत्पीड़क उतना ही कैदी है जितना कि उत्पीड़ित। जैसे पूर्व पीड़ितों की स्वतंत्रता को लूटता है, वह स्वयं अपनी मानवता को भी गँवा देता है। इस प्रकार, उत्पीड़क भी स्वतंत्र नहीं है।

Nelson Mandela Class 10 Video Explanation

Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom MCQ Questions

Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom Lesson Explanation

Passage: TENTH May dawned bright and clear. For the past few days I had been pleasantly besieged by dignitaries and world leaders who were coming to pay their respects before the inauguration. The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African soil. The ceremonies took place in the lovely sandstone amphitheater formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria. For decades this had been the seat of white supremacy, and now it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different colors and nations for the installation of South Africa’s first democratic, non-racial government.

Word Meaning Dawned- (of a day) began Pleasantly – giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment; satisfying Besieged- to be surrounded by Dignitaries- a person considered to be important because of high rank or office. Sandstone – a sedimentary rock consisting of sand or quartz grains cemented together, typically red, yellow, or brown in color. Amphitheatre- an open-air theatre Supremacy – the state or condition of being superior to all others in authority, power, or status

Explanation of the above Passage: 10 th May was the day when Nelson Mandela sworn in as the first black Head of State, South Africa. It was after years of struggle that his anti-racist party came into power. Until then, the seat had always been occupied by white Presidents. That is why, the author referred to the day as “bright and clear”. It was a morning full of hope. Days before this date, many notable personalities started congratulating him for his victory. For the first time in the country’s history, so many international leaders came together for their inauguration ceremony. The ceremony took place in an open circular building made of sandstone consisting of Union buildings in Pretoria city.

Passage: On that lovely autumn day I was accompanied by my daughter Zenani. On the podium, Mr de Klerk was first sworn in as second deputy president. Then Thabo Mbeki was sworn in as first deputy president. When it was my turn, I pledged to obey and uphold the Constitution and to devote myself to the wellbeing of the Republic and its people.

Word Meaning Deputy – Second in command Sworn- given under oath; determined to stay in the role specified Pledged – committed (a person or organization) by a solemn promise.

Explanation of the above Passage: The author was accompanied by his daughter, Zenani on his big day. First, the two Vice-Presidents took an oath. Then, when his turn came, he committed to respect, protect and abide by the Constitution and to devote his entire self into the welfare of the country.

Passage: To the assembled guests and the watching world, I said: “Today, all of us do, by our presence here… confer glory and hope to newborn liberty. Out of the experience of an extraordinary human disaster that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all humanity will be proud. We, who were outlaws, not so long ago, have today been given the rare privilege to be host to the nations of the world on our own soil. We thank all of our distinguished international guests for having come to take possession with the people of our country of what is, after all, a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity.”

Word Meaning Assembled – (of people) gather together in one place for a common purpose Confer- grant Glory- honour Outlaws- because of its policy of apartheid, many countries had earlier broken off diplomatic relations with South Africa On our own soil – in our own country Possession – ownership Dignity – the state or quality of being worthy of respect.

Explanation of the above Passage: The author also mentions some parts of his speech where he said that everyone, by his presence was giving rise to hope for a new beginning. Previous rulers were discriminatory and lasted for long but the ones, who are given the opportunity to rule now (ANC), would stand up against discrimination. He is glad to host a ceremony with the presence of global leaders. It is an achievement in itself. There was a time when South Africa, for practicing apartheid, lost all its international political relationships. Now, when there is no segregation on the basis of race and gender, other nations are happy to have healthy democratic relationships. Finally, they have come to power and they pledge to make everyone proud. He thanked everyone, especially the international leaders for joining them in celebrating their achievement which is a step towards an equal society where every human will be treated fairly.

Passage: “ We have, at last, achieved our political emancipation. We pledge ourselves to liberate all our people from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. Never, never, and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another. The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement. Let freedom reign. God bless Africa!”

Word Meaning Emancipation – the fact or process of being set free from legal, social, or political restrictions Liberate- free; release Bondage- the state of being a slave Discrimination- being treated differently or unfavorably Deprivation- the damaging lack of material benefits considered to be basic necessities in a society Oppression- prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or exercise of authority. Glorious- having, worthy of, or bringing fame or admiration. Reign- rule; govern

Explanation of the above Passage: He mentions that after great struggle, they have finally achieved political freedom. His government promised to free everyone of the still existing poverty, hardship and inequalities of all kind along with assuring everyone of a country where no community will be considered inferior. He then exclaims that freedom should rule and may god shower his blessings on their land.

Passage: A few moments later we all lifted our eyes in awe as a spectacular array of South African jets, helicopters and troop carriers roared in perfect formation over the Union Buildings. It was not only a display of pinpoint precision and military force, but a demonstration of the military’s loyalty to democracy, to a new government that had been freely and fairly elected. Only moments before, the highest generals of the South African defence force and police, their chests bedecked with ribbons and medals from days gone by, saluted me and pledged their loyalty. I was not unmindful of the fact that not so many years before they would not have saluted but arrested me. Finally a chevron of Impala jets left a smoke trail of the black, red, green, blue and gold of the new South African flag.

Word Meaning Awe – amazed Spectacular- beautiful in a dramatic and an eye-catching way Array- an impressive display Troop- soldiers or armed forces Precision- accuracy Bedecked- decorate Unmindful- not conscious or aware Chevron- a pattern in the shape of a V Trail- series; chain

Explanation of the above Passage:   Just after the newly elected President’s address to the audience, an impressive arrangement of fighter jets, helicopter and soldier transporters raised everyone’s heads up in the sky. It symbolised perfection as well as military’s respect and obedience towards the free country. The high commanders, who have won medals for their bravery, also saluted and promised their loyalty. Mandela mentions that he was well aware that these commanders, who were now saluting him, would have arrested him under the previous rule as during the oppressive white supremacy, he was considered to be a criminal. The air show finally ended by making of the South African flag in the sky from smoke beneath the jets.

Passage: The day was symbolized for me by the playing of our two national anthems, and the vision of whites singing ‘Nkosi Sikelel –iAfrika’ and blacks singing ‘Die Stem’, the old anthem of the Republic. Although that day neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem they once despised, they would soon know the words by heart.

Word Meaning Symbolized – be a symbol of Lyrics- the words of a song Despised- hated, had a very low opinion of

Explanation of the above Passage: The author remembers the day as the playing of two National Anthems of the country; one of the whites and the other, that of the blacks. On that day, no one knew the wordings of the anthem of the blacks but Mandela was confident that everyone would soon learn this anthem that they once hated.

Passage : On the day of the inauguration, I was overwhelmed with a sense of history. In the first decade of the twentieth century, a few years after the bitter Anglo-Boer war and before my own birth, the white-skinned peoples of South Africa patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination against the dark-skinned peoples of their own land. The structure they created formed the basis of one of the harshest, most inhumane, societies the world has ever known. Now, in the last decade of the twentieth century, and my own eighth decade as a man, that system had been overturned forever and replaced by one that recognized the rights and freedoms of all peoples, regardless of the colour of their skin.

Word Meaning Overwhelmed- have a strong emotional effect Erected- build; construct Racial domination- when people of one race have power over another race Inhumane -cruel, brutal Overturned – reverse.

Explanation of the above Passage: On the day of the inaugural ceremony, the author was remembering the days of past when this whole system of apartheid emerged. It resulted in inequality and inferior treatment of dark-skinned people. They were deprived of their basic fundamental rights. As a result, one of the world’s most brutal and inhumane society was born This began even before he was born. This system created an atmosphere of extreme cruelty and injustice for a particular part of the community. Now when he is in his eighth decade as a man, he along with countless others, have changed this entire system that treats humans as humans irrespective of their colour, caste, gender, or age.

Passage: That day had come about through the unimaginable sacrifices of thousands of my people, people whose suffering and courage can never be counted or repaid. I felt that day, as I have on so many other days, that I was simply the sum of all those African patriots who had gone before me. That long and noble line ended and now began again with me. I was pained that I was not able to thank them and that they were not able to see what their sacrifices had wrought.

Word Meaning Unimaginable- difficult or impossible to imagine Patriots- a person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies

Explanation of the above Passage: This equal and free country was a result of sacrifices of countless other men and women who have fought all their lives for this day. The author wishes if he could thank them all but unfortunately, they didn’t live to see the result of their courage. Nelson Mandela gathered his courage and power from all these people and thus, wishes to make them proud.

Passage: The policy of apartheid created a deep and lasting wound in my country and my people. All of us will spend many years, if not generations, recovering from that profound hurt. But the decades of oppression and brutality had another, unintended, effect, and that was that it produced the Oliver Tambos, the Walter Sisulus, the Chief Luthulis, the Yusuf Dadoos, the Bram Fischers, the Robert Sobukwes of our time* — men of such extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity that their like may never be known again. Perhaps it requires such depths of oppression to create such heights of character. My country is rich in the minerals and gems that lie beneath its soil, but I have always known that its greatest wealth is its people, finer and truer than the purest diamonds.

Word Meaning Apartheid – a policy or system of segregation on grounds of race Profound – very great or intense Unintended – not planned or meant

Explanation of the above Passage: The oppression policy scarred many people and it will take a long time for them to move on. The author mentions that this hard time had its negative impacts but it also exposed a lot of strong and courageous men who stood up and raised their voice. Thus, it required that level of unjust treatment to produce such great heroes. South Africa, he says, is rich in minerals and gems but its greatest strength lies in its people.

Passage: It is from these comrades in the struggle that I learned the meaning of courage. Time and again, I have seen men and women risk and give their lives for an idea. I have seen men stand up to attacks and torture without breaking, showing a strength and resilience that defies the imagination. 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.

Word Meaning Comrades – a colleague or a fellow member of an organization Resilience- the ability to deal with any kind of hardship and recover from its effects Defies- refuse to obey Triumph – great victory or achievement

Explanation of the above Passage: Nelson Mandela gained his strength to stand against the wrong from all the great nationalists he mentioned above, who have even risked their lives for freedom and tolerated ill-treatment, but never stopped fighting. He learned that “courage” didn’t mean the absence of fear, but the ability to overcome fear. The man who overcomes his fear is called brave.

Passage: No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite. Even in the grimmest times in prison, when my comrades and I were pushed to our limits, I would see a glimmer of humanity in one of the guards, perhaps just for a second, but it was enough to reassure me and keep me going. Man’s goodness is a flame that can be hidden but never extinguished.

Word Meaning Grimmest- very serious or gloomy Glimmer- shine faintly with a wavering light Pushed to our limits- pushed to the last point in our ability to bear pain Reassure- say or do something to remove the doubts

Explanation of the above Passage: One is taught by its society to hate humans because of their skin, colour, age, gender and religion. No one is inborn with hatred. The author’s idea is that if people can be taught hatred, they can also be taught love and brotherhood. In their most testing times in prison when they were being treated brutally, Mandela would see a pinch of humanity and kindness in one of the guards and that was enough to keep him going. He believes that goodness in human beings can be suppressed but never eliminated.

Passage: In life, every man has twin obligations — obligations to his family, to his parents, to his wife and children; and he has an obligation to his people, his community, his country. In a civil and humane society, each man is able to fulfil those obligations according to his own inclinations and abilities. But in a country like South Africa, it was almost impossible for a man of my birth and colour to fulfil both of those obligations. In South Africa, a man of colour who attempted to live as a human being was punished and isolated. In South Africa, a man who tried to fulfil his duty to his people was inevitably ripped from his family and his home and was forced to live a life apart, a twilight existence of secrecy and rebellion. I did not in the beginning choose to place my people above my family, but in attempting to serve my people, I found that I was prevented from fulfilling my obligations as a son, a brother, a father and a husband.

Word Meaning Obligations- a duty or a commitment Civil – courteous and polite Inclination – natural tendencies of behavior Inevitably- unavoidably Twilight- half-light, semi-darkness Secrecy- the action of keeping something secret Rebellion- the action or process of resisting authority, convention or control

Explanation of the above Passage: According to the author, every human being has its responsibility towards the family and as well as the society. Generally, under normal circumstances, a person can maintain the balance between the two but in countries like South Africa, it was never so easy. When a person of colour would come up for his society, he would be arrested and taken away from his family, thus keeping them from fulfilling both responsibilities. In the beginning, Mandela did not put his people over his family, but it was only later when he realised that in order to be there for his people, he was compromising his duties towards his own family.

Passage: I was not born with a hunger to be free. I was born free — free in every way that I could know. Free to run in the fields near my mother’s hut, free to swim in the clear stream that ran through my village, free to roast mealies under the stars and ride the broad backs of slow-moving bulls. As long as I obeyed my father and abided by the customs of my tribe, I was not troubled by the laws of man or God. It was only when I began to learn that my boyhood freedom was an illusion, when I discovered as a young man that my freedom had already been taken from me, that I began to hunger for it. At first, as a student, I wanted freedom only for myself, the transitory freedoms of being able to stay out at night, read what I pleased and go where I chose. Later, as a young man in Johannesburg, I yearned for the basic and honorable freedoms of achieving my potential, of earning my keep, of marrying and having a family — the freedom not to be obstructed in a lawful life.

Word Meaning Stream – a small, narrow river Mealies- a maize plant Abided- obeyed Boyhood- the state or time of being a boy Illusion – a false idea or belief Transitory- not permanent Yearned- have an intense feeling or longing for something

Explanation of the above Passage: The author did not have the plan to stand against the apartheid system early in life. He lived his childhood like any normal child in South Africa. He only had to follow the rules set up by his father or the customs of his tribe. As soon as he grew up and began to learn the facts as to how people of colour are treated, he decided to stand against it. He had this urge for freedom from inside, earlier just for himself (staying out at night, etc.) and later for having a basic life not just for himself, but for everyone. In Johannesburg, they had to struggle for having a peaceful marriage, family and basic amenities which everyone has access to where law and order exists.

Passage: But then I slowly saw that not only was I not free, but my brothers and sisters were not free. I saw that it was not just my freedom that was curtailed, but the freedom of everyone who looked like I did. That is when I joined the African National Congress, and that is when the hunger for my own freedom became the greater hunger for the freedom of my people. It was this desire for the freedom of my people to live their lives with dignity and selfrespect that animated my life, that transformed a frightened young man into a bold one, that drove a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal, that turned a family-loving husband into a man without a home, that forced a life-loving man to live like a monk. I am no more virtuous or self-sacrificing than the next man, but I found that I could not even enjoy the poor and limited freedoms I was allowed when I knew my people were not free. Freedom is indivisible; the chains on anyone of my people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all of my people were the chains on me.

Word Meaning Curtailed – reduce; impose a restriction on Dignity – the state or quality of being worthy of honour or respect Frightened- afraid or anxious Monk- a member of a religious community of men typically living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience Virtuous – having or showing high moral standards Indivisible- unable to be divided or separated

Explanation of the above Passage: Nelson Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC) when he realized it is not only him whose basic rights were snatched away but of all those who looked like him. He had this fire inside him to free his people from the injustice. It was this fire that changed the author completely as a man, from being scared to brave, a lawyer to the one breaking the law, a family-man to a man without a home and a lively man into being a monk. It was the knowledge that he and his people have restricted freedom that made him into a selfless man as opposed to before. According to him, freedom cannot be divided. Snatching it away from some was equivalent to taking it away from everyone and that meant taking it away from the author.

Passage: I knew that the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed. A man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred; he is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.

Word Meaning Prejudice- a strong dislike without any good reason

Explanation of the above Passage: He mentions that the need to free the oppressor is as high as that of the oppressed because the oppressor is bounded by the shackles of hatred. He has the weight of all the people who he has tormented, for he carries the curses of all of their families. For taking away someone else’s freedom and making them a prisoner, he becomes a prisoner of business. Thus, he is robbed of his humanity and need to be freed.

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NCERT Solutions Class 10 English Chapter 2: A Long Walk to Freedom Class

• Updated on  
• Jan 13, 2024

A Long Walk to Freedom is the 2nd chapter of the Class 10 English syllabus , which is the autobiography of Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid revolutionary and first black prime minister who served South Africa from 1994 -1999. The following is the summary of A Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 and the prose section which includes Mandela’s inauguration ceremony and excerpts from his speeches which illustrate the struggles Mandela had to undergo as a freedom fighter. Let’s learn everything about a long walk to Freedom Class 10 notes.

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Nelson mandela a long walk to freedom class 10 summary, a long walk to freedom class 10 notes, a long walk to freedom class 10  ppt, nelson mandela class 10 questions and answers.

A Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 PDF

After nearly three centuries of white supremacy in South Africa, the country witnessed its first Black President, Nelson Mandela who be won the first and foremost democratic elections on May 10, 1994. Mandela’s party clocked in a historic win with 252 votes out of 400. A Long Walk to Freedom chapter in Class 10 is an extract from Nelson Mandela’s autobiography which elucidates the struggle faced by the black community in South Africa riddled with apartheid. Here is a summary of A Long Walk to Freedom:

• Mandela took his oath as the President in the Union Buildings amphitheatre in Pretoria in the presence of several prominent political figures and world leaders across the globe. He commenced his speech by addressing all the dignitaries and assured the citizens they would never experience similar suppression of one group over another.
• Nelson Mandela vowed that in the democratic country that he’d established there would never be discrimination against people, irrespective of caste, colour, creed or race and that government would treat people with due respect and equality.
• On this historic inauguration, the country’s citizens sang 2 national anthems. The white people sang ‘Nkosi Sikelel –iAfrika’ and the black people recited the iconic ‘Die Stem’ which was a stark reminder of the exploitation of the black community in South Africa.
• Deeply pained by the racist history, Nelson Mandela said that this type of discrimination of black people in their very own land was one of the harshest and most inhuman the world had ever known. He emphasised that people are not born to hate others on the basis of skin colour, background or religion and they can be taught to love because love comes naturally to human beings than hate. 

Must Read: Nelson Mandela International Day

• An important part of Mandela’s speech in A Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 extract, Mandela stated that a man has 2 obligations in his life; one towards his family and the other towards his motherland, countrymen and community and as per their own interests and inclinations, man is able to fulfil these obligations. However, as a black man in a country like South Africa, Mandela found it increasingly difficult to do so. As he became an adult, Mandela saw freedom as an illusion for his community.
• Mandela further believed that freedom was indivisible for all. Still, he saw that the black community is facing oppression and tyranny. It emulated the profound idea that the oppressor must be liberated just like the oppressed because a person who snatches another’s freedom is also a prisoner of similar oppression. Therefore the oppressor wasn’t any freer than the oppressed because they were bound by the same chains of oppression.

Must Read: Education of Nelson Mandela

Here is a rundown of this chapter to help you quickly revise A Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela:

• The chapter Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom starts with Nelson Mandela talking about how it is a beautiful day for the country since they are getting their first non-white democratically elected government. He then tells the names of the people who become deputy Presidents before he takes his oath as the president in the presence of foreign dignitaries, people of his beloved country, army officials and his daughter – Zenani.
• This beautiful grand inauguration was the first and largest gathering of international leaders in South Africa. His first speech as the president of South Africa hails this glorious moment as the victory of justice, peace and human dignity, which has been achieved with great difficulty after a very long fight against Apartheid. He concludes the speech by pledging to uplift his country’s people from poverty, deprivation, suffering, and discrimination.
• He also describes all the beautiful things that happen in the ceremony, like the show that jets, troop carriers and helicopters do with beautiful stunts and colours of the African national flag. When the defence forces and police salute and pledge loyalty to him, he is mindful of how far they have come because a few years before this day, the same officers would have arrested him instead of saluting him. The 2 national anthems playing with the whites singing the African and the Africans singing the anthem, which the state previously used, symbolized the harmony and peace he wanted to see in his country.
• Mandela seems a little overwhelmed when he takes his contemporary fighters’ names who worked and sacrificed for their country’s freedom and this day. He feels he is “the total of all the African patriots” who came before him and is saddened that he cannot personally thank them for all that they did for the country. He says he is no more virtuous or self-sacrificing than the next man, but he discovered that he could not enjoy whatever little freedom he had with the knowledge that his people were not free either.

Must Read: How Does Nelson Mandela Define the Meaning of Courage?

In Nelson Mandela’s A Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela stated his belief that his country is rich in minerals and metals, but the people of his country were the real greatest wealth for him “finer and truer than the purest diamond”. Nelson Mandela believes “No one is born hating another person because of his skin colour or background or religion.”

According to Mandela, people are born free of such prejudices. He says that the oppressor and the oppressed both needed to be liberated – the oppressor from their inhuman condition and the oppressor from their prison of hatred. Believing that men learn to hate, he says they can learn to love, which is easier because love comes easier to people than hate.

Here is the speech by Nelson Mandela that is covered in this chapter:

Also Read: The Frog and the Nightingale Summary Class 10 English

Here are some important questions and answers for A Long Walk to Freedom Class 10:

Ans. He referred to the heinous practice of apartheid as “an extraordinary human disaster”. During apartheid in South Africa, there was racial segregation which caused immense suffering to the black community. Demand for freedom or any kind of basic human right was a far-fetched dream. Mandela was himself imprisoned in the infamous “Robben Island” and beaten mercilessly. He considered becoming the 1st Black Prime Minister in South Africa a glorious achievement because South Africa was a country that would even regard black people as human beings let alone give them positions of power.

Ans. The book was published in December 1994. There is also a movie on it available on Netflix if you are interested to learn more about the book.

Ans. Mandela’s swearing-in ceremony was historic because not too long ago blacks were considered outlaws in their own motherland. Mandela was honoured to have the international leaders witness this historical moment. Not only was this a sign of international recognition of a newly born democratic South Africa, it was also the victory of peace, justice and humanity.

Ans. Growing up, freedom for Mandela meant making merry and living a blissful life. But as he grew he realized his childhood antics were wasteful from an adult perspective. As an adult freedom for him meant an honourable existence, earning one’s daily bread and fending for the family.

Ans. The story revolves around the theme of getting freedom after a very long struggle due to the courage of all the people who sacrificed so much for equality and peace in the country, much like India’s own freedom struggle. The celebration when a country gets its freedom is also shown in the story.

Ans. The moral of the story is that the oppressor and the oppressed both lose humanity. One through hatred and the other through oppression and hence both need to be liberated from these inhumane prisons. Mandela’s belief that people are born free of hatred and learn it later is also a very enlightening lesson we learn from the chapter. The people learn to hate and therefore they can also learn to love is a beautiful takeaway from the lesson.

Ans. Apartheid was the political system in South Africa due to which people were discriminated against based on their skin colour hence the native black people had almost negligible rights and freedom. The generals who would have arrested Nelson Mandela a few years ago saluted him and pledged their loyalty to him because he had been one of the key members in their fight against apartheid and now they had won the fight. Nelson was the new president and there was no difference between white and black.

Ans. On 10 th May, 1994 the first democratically elected government was established with their first non-white president as Nelson Mandela in South Africa. Hence it is a moment of glorious historical significance for the country.

Ans. According to Nelson Mandela, a man has two obligations in his life. One is towards his family and friends the other is towards his people and country.  

Ans. For Nelson Mandela, Courage doesn’t mean the lack of fear but acceptance and winning over it. He learnt the true meaning of courage from thousands of freedom fighters and people who gave countless sacrifices for their country.

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Ans. Mandela wanted freedom for himself as a student.

Ans. My country is rich in the minerals and gems that lie beneath its soil, but I have always known that its greatest wealth is its people, finer and truer than the purest diamonds.

Ans. In the chapter, the author has talked about two obligations for every man. The first obligation is towards his family, parents, his wife, and children. The second is towards his community and his country. Being a social person one has to fulfil these obligations.

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Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Notes

Summary in english.

This lesson is an extract from the autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom. Nelson Mandela was the first black to become the President of South Africa after three hundred years’ rule of the White. Mr. Mandela’s party won 252 seats out of 400 in the first democratic elections in South Africa’s history. In his address at the inauguration ceremony Nelson Mandela said, ‘‘Never, never again will this beautiful land experience the oppression of one by another.’’ Mandela and his African National Congress spent a lifetime fighting against the white rule. Mandela was congratulated by dignitaries and world leaders before the inauguration. It was the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African soil. Mr. de Klerk was first sworn in as the second Deputy President preceded by Thabo Mbeki as first Deputy President and ultimately the First Black President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela.

Then an array of South African jets, helicopters and troop carriers displayed military force of South Africa. On this day the white and the black both sung their respective national anthems. South Africa could see this day because of the numberless sacrifices of the people. According to Mandela, the greatest wealth of his country is its people like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sislus, Chief Luthulis and some others. He learned from these people that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it.

No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. So people must learn how to love others. Each man has two obligations; first towards his family and second one for his country. But in a country like South Africa, it was almost impossible for a man to fulfil both these obligations. Mandela was not born with the hunger to be free as he felt that he was born free. But in his boyhood he found this freedom an illusion. The desire of freedom was not confined to Mandela only

but to all the Africans now. It is indivisible; the chains on anyone of his people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all of his people were the chains on him. The man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred; he is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow mindedness. One can be called free if he respects another’s freedom with same degree as he desires for himself.

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• Nelson Mandela - Biographical

Nelson Mandela

Biographical.

Questions and answers on Nelson Mandela

N elson Rolihlahla Mandela was born in Transkei, South Africa on July 18, 1918. His father was Hendry Mphakanyiswa of the Tembu Tribe. Mandela himself was educated at University College of Fort Hare and the University of Witwatersrand where he studied law. He joined the African National Congress in 1944 and was engaged in resistance against the ruling National Party’s apartheid policies after 1948. He went on trial for treason in 1956-1961 and was acquitted in 1961.

After the banning of the ANC in 1960, Nelson Mandela argued for the setting up of a military wing within the ANC. In June 1961, the ANC executive considered his proposal on the use of violent tactics and agreed that those members who wished to involve themselves in Mandela’s campaign would not be stopped from doing so by the ANC. This led to the formation of Umkhonto we Sizwe. Mandela was arrested in 1962 and sentenced to five years’ imprisonment with hard labour. In 1963, when many fellow leaders of the ANC and the Umkhonto we Sizwe were arrested, Mandela was brought to stand trial with them for plotting to overthrow the government by violence. His statement from the dock received considerable international publicity. On June 12, 1964, eight of the accused, including Mandela, were sentenced to life imprisonment. From 1964 to 1982, he was incarcerated at Robben Island Prison, off Cape Town; thereafter, he was at Pollsmoor Prison, nearby on the mainland.

During his years in prison, Nelson Mandela’s reputation grew steadily. He was widely accepted as the most significant black leader in South Africa and became a potent symbol of resistance as the anti-apartheid movement gathered strength. He consistently refused to compromise his political position to obtain his freedom.

Nelson Mandela was released on February 11, 1990. After his release, he plunged himself wholeheartedly into his life’s work, striving to attain the goals he and others had set out almost four decades earlier. In 1991, at the first national conference of the ANC held inside South Africa after the organization had been banned in 1960, Mandela was elected President of the ANC while his lifelong friend and colleague, Oliver Tambo, became the organisation’s National Chairperson.

This autobiography/biography was written at the time of the award and later published in the book series Les Prix Nobel/ Nobel Lectures / The Nobel Prizes . The information is sometimes updated with an addendum submitted by the Laureate.

Watch a video clip of Nelson Mandela and Frederik Willem de Klerk receiving their Nobel Peace Prize medals and diplomas during the Nobel Peace Prize Award Ceremony at the Oslo City Hall in Norway, 10 December 1993.

This autobiography/biography was written at the time of the award and first published in the book series Les Prix Nobel . It was later edited and republished in Nobel Lectures . To cite this document, always state the source as shown above.

For more updated biographical information, see: Mandela, Nelson. Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela . Little, Brown and Co., Boston, 1994.

Nelson Mandela died on 5 December 2013.

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• Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela- Long Walk to Freedom Summary

Reading this first hand and beautifully written account of Nelson Mandela’s life is an extraordinary opportunity. Nelson Mandela, a South African freedom fighter and unfortunately a political prisoner for 27 years, his saga of eradicating the apartheid system from the country. The African National Congress struggled, and finally, Mandela was the first black president.

About Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was a political leader and anti-apartheid activist from South Africa. Mandela was elected president of South Africa after serving 27 years in prison for supporting anti-apartheid views. He was the country's first black president and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end apartheid in South Africa. Mandela has earned over 250 honors and is recognized universally as one of the most significant figures of the 20th century and an icon of democracy and social justice. Today, he is highly respected in South Africa. 

We hope this CBSE Class 10 English Long Walk to Freedom Summary provided students with a strong overview of the chapter. You can visit Vedantu's website for more intriguing updates on CBSE and CBSE study material, as well as access to sample papers and question papers from previous years.

The Birth of the Mischievous Child - Summary

Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in a petit village in South Africa’s Transkei region. He was named Rolihlahla by his father, which colloquially translated to “troublemaker” in their language. Mandela was born to a noble lineage. His father held the position of the chief of the Thembu tribe. In his childhood, Mandela was a herd boy looking after cattle and sheep. He mainly ate “mealies' ' corn as his food. He attended a small one-room school in his village, often wearing his father’s cut-off pants secured by a string around the waist.

In his words- “ My life, and that of most Xhosas...was shaped by custom, ritual, and taboo.”

Mandela’s father passed away when he was just nine and his family sent him to live with Chief Jongintaba Dalindyebo, the Thembu’s acting regent in Mqhekezweni, “the great place,” Thembuland’s provincial capital. He received a better education for a black South African of his generation. He studied in a reputed college named Wesleyan college in Fort Beaufort, and at the University College of Fort Hare, in Alice. While he was a student, the regent tried to arrange his marriage to a daughter of a Thembu priest. He refused and ran away to Johannesburg.

His Journey to a Rebellion

Mandela started his career as a night watchman at Crown Mines. It was a local gold mine. He utilized subterfuge to get this job, lying about the approval he had gotten from the well-reputed regent. Mine officials learned the truth and told Mandela to return immediately to Mqhekezweni. Refusing to leave Johannesburg, Mandela stayed with a cousin for some time. Then he moved in with Reverend J. Mabutho, but after knowing his truth, the reverend arranged for him to stay with neighbors. 

Mandela went to work as a clerk for the law firm of Witkin, Sidelsky, and Eidelman and took correspondence courses from the University of South Africa. Despite his poverty, his eventual goal was to be a lawyer. In 1942, Mandela earned his bachelor’s degree. He enrolled in the University of the Witwatersrand for his law degree. He was the only black law student.

Fight for Freedom 

The African National Congress had its young member, Mandela. He convinced the ANC's head to take a more substantial step towards the black people’s equal rights.  During this period of his life, Mandela also got married to Evelyn Mase, his first wife.

“Apartheid was the policy for arranging the laws and regulations that had kept Africans in an inferior position to whites for centuries. In 1948, the National Party became the ruling party in South Africa and applied apartheid, the political separation and oppression of blacks. The nationalist party restricted black people’s freedom. This agitated the rebellion against Mandela, and he, along with his party, started civil disobedience. 

He got arrested and was confined for a brief period and later again got arrested along with the ANP members and was put on trial. The court sentenced them to nine months of imprisonment for communism but later suspended the sentence. 

By 1952, Mandela had inaugurated a law firm with Oliver Tambo. The authorities insulted them as “kaffir” lawyers, a racial slander. Their firm represented blacks in various police brutality cases but always lost in court. In 1953, The Nationalist government moved blacks to rural areas and gave their homes to white people. This angered Mandela, and he decided to give up the passive resistance. He was considered dangerous and was banned from politics for some years.

In 1956, the South African security police arrested Mandela and 155 other leaders, including nearly every ANC official. The charge was high treason, but the leaders were released pending trial. Mandela was accused by his ANC members of trying to create a Russian- Style Government. 

Mandela’s marriage was on the rocks. Evelyn left with their sons Makgatho and Thembi, and their daughter, Makaziwe. Shortly after, Mandela fell in love with Nomzamo Winifred Madikizela, known as Winnie. He remarried Winnie, and she was active in the women's ANC group.

The interminable “treason trial” finally ended in March 1961, after four years. Though found innocent, Mandela went into hiding. The security forces issued new warrants for his arrest. He traveled surreptitiously, sometimes posing as a chauffeur or a “garden boy.” The government set up roadblocks to prevent his movements. Newspapers began to write about the former high-profile freedom fighter, now a mysterious will-o’-the-wisp. They called him the “Black Pimpernel.”

Before long, the South African police arrested Mandela for fomenting strikes and for leaving the country without the proper documents. Mandela defended himself at his 1962 trial but did not contest the charges. Finding him guilty, the judge sentenced him to five years in prison with no parole. He was sent to Robben Island, where white jailers greeted him with, “This is the island where you will die!” Soon the authorities brought new charges, for sabotage, against Mandela and the other freedom fighters. The government produced 173 witnesses against them. People worldwide demonstrated on behalf of Mandela and his comrades, but in 1964, they were found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment on Robben Island.

Their cells were damp, cramped, and unpleasant. Inside the walls, the “Coloreds” (mixed-race peoples) and the Indians received the best (though not good) food. Mandela and the other blacks received the worst.

“I wanted South Africa to see that I loved even my enemies, while I hated the system that turned us against one another.

Mandela always had to be on guard in jail. Once, he turned down a warden who offered to help him escape. Later, he learned that the man was with the Bureau of State Security. He planned that Mandela would be “accidentally” killed during the escape.

“I am told that when ‘Free Mandela’ posters went up in London, most young people thought my Christian name was Free.” - Mandela

More black South Africans than ever before joined the fight for freedom. New militant groups formed. The ANC’s popularity increased. The townships were in an uproar. Violence escalated. In 1985, the government offered to free Mandela if he renounced violence. Though he refused, he now believed it was time to negotiate with the Nationalists. As the de facto leader of the freedom movement, he met first with a special committee of Nationalist officials. Their initial topic was the armed struggle. The Nationalists said violence against the state was criminal. Mandela said the state “was responsible for the violence” and that the oppressor, not the oppressed, always “dictates the form of the struggle.”

In early 1990, de Klerk freed Mandela and seven of his comrades. They had imprisoned  Mandela for 27 years. De Klerk also dismantled apartheid. In December, the two men met. The push for black freedom now moved with startling speed.

In 1993, the ANC and de Klerk’s administration announced plans for a “government of national unity,” calling for South Africa to hold its first truly democratic election the following year. For their efforts, Mandela and de Klerk received the 1993 Nobel Peace Prize. In April 1994, the ANC won 62.6% of the vote. Shortly thereafter, Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa. He served until 1999.

Work remains to be done. Mandela has not achieved his full original goal, “to liberate the oppressed and the oppressor,” though his country has taken bold steps forward. For now, He says, “We have merely achieved the freedom to be free, the right not to be oppressed.”

The courageous man is not the fearless one; instead, he is the one who overcomes his fear. According to Mandela, every man has responsibilities towards his country and community.

FAQs on Nelson Mandela

1. What was the reason behind singing two national anthems?

The two national anthems- one for Blacks and one for Whites, were sung to symbolize equality and respect for all members of the community, regardless of race.

2. According to Mandela, what does courage mean?

"Courage," according to Mandela, does not imply the absence of fear but the victory over it. A brave man has overcome his fear of beating all challenges.

3. What are the key points to remember?

Here are the key points:

The swearing-in ceremony took place in Pretoria's beautiful sandstone amphitheater.

He wished for Africa's independence to rule.

Army authorities, who could have apprehended him and imprisoned him previously, saluted him to show respect for the newly established democracy.

The two national anthems were sung during his swearing-in ceremony.

He reflects on the history and pays tribute to national martyrs who gave their lives for the cause of their homeland.

The martyrs, he claims, were men of remarkable courage, knowledge, and generosity.

He claims that man's goodness is a burning flame that can be quenched, but never exhausted.

He discusses his dual responsibilities, one to his family and the other to his country. He discovered he was not free while performing his duties.

As a result, he joined the African National Congress and fought for his country's independence.

He understood that the oppressor, like the oppressed, needed to be liberated.

4. How did Mandela's perspective of freedom evolve as he grew older and gained experience?

As a child, Mandela believed he was born free as long as he obeyed his father's demands and followed his clan's rules. He desired freedom as a student, which he saw as crucial for himself, such as the ability to remain out late at night, read whatever he pleased, and so on. He wished for the freedom to live a simple, dignified life as a young man in Johannesburg. Slowly, he discovered that not only was his freedom limited but that everyone in his town was restricted from living a regular, lawful life. That's when his desire for personal liberty transformed into a greater desire for the freedom of his people.

5. How did the desire for the freedom of his people animated Nelson Mandela’s life?

The desire for the freedom of his people changed Nelson Mandela’s life. He went from being a frightened young man to being a brave young man. A law-abiding attorney became a criminal as a result of his desire. A family-loving husband was transformed into a homeless guy, while a life-loving man was transformed into a monk. Mandela was neither virtuous nor selfless, and he could not even enjoy limited freedom. When he discovered that his people were not free, he felt robbed. He felt his people's slavery as if that was his own. His life was influenced by his desire for his people to be free to live their lives with dignity and self-respect. He was given freedom even though his people were not. The right to be free was indivisible. Any of his people's chains were the chains on all of them, and the chains on all of his people were likewise the chains on him. So, he fought for them.

• NCERT Solutions

• NCERT Notes for Class 10 English
• NCERT Notes for Class 10 English Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Summary, Notes, Question and Answers, PDF

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 : An autobiography issued on Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela , is the only prose in Chapter 2 of the First Flight English textbook for Class 10 students. He served as the nation’s first black president from 1994 to 1999 and was a revolutionary against Apartheid, and a political figure. Since it is an autobiography, the author of Long Walk to Freedom is Nelson Mandela himself. You may get a synopsis of the prose in the style of CBSE Notes right here. In addition, students can read the prose description of a passage from the book “A Long Walk to Freedom.” It features a drawing of Nelson Mandela’s inauguration ceremony and quotes from his speech on his battles as a freedom fighter.

Table of Contents

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Summary

The struggle of South Africa’s black population for liberation is described in Nelson Mandela’s narrative. On May 10, 1994, he took the oath of office as the president of South Africa, overturning more than three centuries of white rule. His party had received 252 votes throughout South Africa’s history.

The event, held at Pretoria’s theater, was attended by many politicians from other nations. He spoke to them with the utmost respect and promised them that racism and prejudice would have no place in the new South Africa. Together, they will all lead to growth. He promised to construct a democratic government and to treat everyone equally and with respect.

The day served as his metaphor as the populace chanted “ Die stem ” and “ Nkosi Sikelel-i-Afrika ,” two national anthems. He was reminded of his suffering due to this tyranny and repression by the events that were taking place. He believed that it was unacceptable for anybody to accept hate of others based on their ethnicity, religion, or other traits.

Great liberation warriors like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Chief Luthuli, and others were consequences of the apartheid policy. The nation had a wealth of resources, but its most significant resource was its people.

It was through risk-taking, suffering torment, and learning that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. When pressed against the prison walls, a man’s inherent goodness allows him to detect compassion and love, and he can also detect the excellent nature of the guards.

He believed that if someone could be taught to hate, they could undoubtedly be taught to love. He listed every man’s two primary obligations: to his family and his nation and community. After he said that Apartheid prevented black people from carrying out their tasks, When Mandela reached her tender age, he understood that the black people would have become enslaved under the white people’s dominion if they had not raised their voices against tyranny.

Black people were subject to the tyranny of white supremacy. He said the oppressor is also imprisoned and robs the victim of their freedom. Their humanity is denied to them both.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Notes

Nelson mandela: long walk to freedom class 10 introduction.

Former South African President Nelson Mandela’s autobiography is titled Long Walk to Freedom. An overview of Nelson Mandela’s long journey to liberation is contained in this article. The text in this chapter is taken from the book “Long Walk to Freedom.” It includes details about the swearing-in event, quotes from his speech, and information about his development as a freedom warrior. In addition, it speaks to the numerous other individuals who battled for their freedom. At that time, the oppressive practice known as “apartheid” was common in South Africa. It referred to prejudice towards people based on their ethnicity and skin tone. Dark-skinned individuals were denied their fundamental rights in one of the cruelest societies. This lesson summarizes Mandela’s initiatives to establish a society devoid of discrimination based on racial, ethnic, or gender preferences.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Explanation (Story )

To help you provide a brief review of Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10, below is an explanation :

Nelson Mandela remarks that it is an excellent day for the nation as they receive their first non-white democratically elected president at the beginning of the chapter Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. Then, before taking the oath of office as president in front of international dignitaries, citizens of his beloved nation, army authorities, and his daughter Zenani, he announces the names of the individuals who would serve as vice presidents.

This lovely ceremonial inauguration was the first significant meeting of world leaders in South Africa. In his first address as president of South Africa, he welcomes this momentous occasion as the triumph of justice, peace, and human dignity, attained after a protracted battle against Apartheid. He promises to free the people of his nation from prejudice, poverty, and other hardships as he makes his closing remarks.

He also highlights all the beautiful events that occur during the celebration, such as the spectacular acrobatics that helicopters, troop carriers, and aircraft do while flying in the African flag colors. A few years ago, the same police officers would have arrested him instead of saluting him, so he is conscious of how far they have come when the defense forces and police salute and swear loyalty to him. The two national songs, which represented the harmony and peace he wished to see in his nation, played with white people singing the African anthem and black people singing the anthem that the state had previously used.

When he lists the names of the modern-day fighters who worked and gave their lives for their nation’s independence, Mandela appears a bit overawed. He regrets that he cannot personally thank the “total of all the African patriots.” They came before him since he believes he is “the total of all the African patriots” and appreciates everything they accomplished for the nation. He claims he is no more moral or selfless than the average guy, but he learned that he could not enjoy the little freedom he had while also knowing that his people were not free.

The Long Walk to Freedom is the autobiography of Nelson Mandela, where he mentions that although his nation is wealthy in minerals and metals, he considered its people “finer and truer than the finest diamond” and the genuine source of its most excellent richness. According to Nelson Mandela, no one is born hating another person because of their skin color, family origin, or religion.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Author

One of the former presidents of South Africa, and A Long Walk to Freedom author is Nelson Mandela. The book was initially released in 1994 by Little Brown & Co. and was ghostwritten by Richard Stengel.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Question and Answers

Q1. where did the ceremonies take place can you name any public buildings in india that are made of sandstone.

Answer: Dignitaries and international leaders from many countries attended the celebrations, which were held in the beautiful sandstone amphitheater created by Pretoria’s Union Buildings. Rashtrapati Bhavan and Red Fort are two prominent structures in India composed of red sandstone.

Q2. Can you say how May 10 is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa?

Answer: Autumn often marks the start of the harvest, linked to wealth and prosperity. Because the first democratic, non-racial government of South Africa was installed on this auspicious day in front of the most extraordinary assemblage of world leaders ever on South African territory, May 10 is known as “autumn day” in that country.

Q3. At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster.” What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious … human achievement” he speaks of at the end?

Answer: The practice of Apartheid in South Africa was what Mandela meant to convey in his address, “an extraordinary human disaster.” People were divided based on their skin color under this practice, and Black people suffered the most due to discrimination from the other races. As a result, they were unable to exercise their right to freedom. Mandela spent 18 years in prison on the infamous “Robben Island,” where the guards tortured him. Nevertheless, he saw being the first Black president of South Africa, a country where Black people were denied access to necessities, endured various forms of discrimination, and received poor treatment, as a “great glorious human achievement.”

Q4. What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?

Answer : Mandela was incredibly honored to invite dignitaries and world leaders to the swearing-in event since, not so long ago, South Africans were regarded as outlaws. Therefore, he thanked everyone for traveling great distances to witness the historic swearing-in of South Africa’s first Black president.

This development might be seen as a shared triumph for righteousness, peace, and human dignity.

Q5. What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?

Answer: South Africans should be freed from the ongoing shackles of poverty, hardship, suffering, and discrimination based on gender and other factors, according to Mandela’s ideas. He wished for the nation’s citizens to be free from slavery and discrimination.

Q6. What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?

Answer: The highest police and military officials in South Africa praised Mandela and vowed to support him. This was important because they would have arrested and imprisoned him throughout the Apartheid era if they hadn’t. Due to the difficulties and sacrifices of numerous South African heroes, their attitude toward Blacks altered. This struggle for independence brought about a significant shift in the thinking of many people and was not merely a fight against Apartheid. Mandela thought that people are innately more disposed to love than hatred and that love is something that can be taught.

Q7. Why were two national anthems sung?

Answer : Two national anthems were played during the ceremonious inauguration ceremony: the Whites sang “ Nkosi Sikelel -iAfrika ” while the Blacks sang “ Die Stem ,” the last hymn of the Republic. Both anthems represented the equality of rights among Whites and Blacks.

Q8. How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country –

• in the first decade, and
• in the final decade of the twentieth century?

Answer: The white South Africans put aside their differences in the first decade of the 20th century and established a system of racial dominance over the dark-skinned inhabitants of their own country.

The former form of government was permanently overthrown and replaced with one that recognized the rights and liberties of all people, regardless of the color of their skin, in the final decade of the 20th century.

Q9. What does courage mean to Mandela?

Answer:   According to Mandela, courage wasn’t the lack of fear but rather the ability to overcome it. A brave man does not feel any fear but one who faces and overcomes it.

Q10. Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate?

Answer: According to Mandela, the human heart is more naturally inclined toward love than hatred.

Q11. What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention?

Answer: Every man, according to Mandela, has two commitments in life: his obligations to his family, which include his wife, parents, and children, and (ii) his responsibility to his people, community, and nation.

Q12. What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy and student? How does he contrast these “transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honorable freedoms”?

Answer: Like any young child, Mandela believed freedom meant living a joyous, carefree existence during his formative years. However, as young person reaches adulthood, their youthful pranks appear fleeting since, in the eyes of an adult, they are all pointless. When people reach adulthood, they learn how to support themselves and make food. He recognizes the fundamental and honorable freedom in his family and the community in which he lives in such a situation.

Q13. Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/Why not?

Answer : According to Long Walk of Freedom by Mandela, an oppressor is like a sufferer of hatred imprisoned by prejudice and narrow-mindedness. Therefore he does not believe that the oppressor is free. On the contrary, he believes that the humanity and peace of mind of both the oppressor and the oppressed are stolen.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 | Nelson Mandela books

Some other books written by Nelson Mandela include:

• Conversations with Myself
• Notes to the Future
• Nelson Mandela In His Own Words
• The Prison Letters of Nelson Mandela
• No Easy Walk to Freedom
• The Struggle is My Life

Conclusion | Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10

The brave man is not the person who feels no fear; instead, he is the one who faces fear head-on and overcomes it. According to Mandela, every man has obligations to his nation and community.

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Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom 10 English, First Flight – Summary, Explanation, Word Meanings

Last Updated on July 3, 2023 By Mrs Shilpi Nagpal

Nelson Mandela, Class 10 English, First Flight

Detailed explanation of “Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom”, including definitions of difficult words. In addition, the explanation is followed by a lesson summary. Also, NCERT Question and Answers are also provided to help students understand this Chapter and do well in their exams.

☛ NCERT Solutions – Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

• 1 Introduction 
• 3 Word Meanings

Introduction 

The chapter is an extract from autobiography of Nelson Mandela’s, the First Black President of South Africa. It provides us a glimpse of the early life of Nelson Mandela, his education, thirty years in prison and the pains he had suffered in his young age. It also recounts his fight for the freedom of his own people who were tortured by the whites. It also mentions the contributions of other freedom fighters of his nation.

The oath taking ceremony of Nelson Mandela, the first black President of South Africa, and his colleagues took place on 10 th May, 1994. It was a historic occasion. Dignitaries and representatives of 140 countries came to attend it. The ceremony took place in the lovely sandstone amphitheatre, formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Nelson Mandela had come to the ceremony with his daughter Zenani.

First, Mr. De Klerk was the 2nd Deputy President, then Thabo Mbeki the 1 st Deputy President were sworn in. Nelson Mandela took oath as the President. He pledged to obey and uphold the constitution and devote himself to the well-being of the republic and its people.

After taking the oath, President Mandela addressed the guests. He promised to create a society of which all humanity would be proud. He welcomed and thanked the international leaders for joining the ceremony that represented a common victory of justice, peace and human dignity. After getting political freedom, his government pledged to liberate people from the bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discriminations. He wished the sun of freedom to shine on his country forever. He also promised that the new society would bring hope, equality and freedom to all.

After the oath ceremony, the display of military force was carried out. It showed the loyalty of military to democracy. The highest military generals saluted him. He recounted that they would have arrested him many years ago. Finally, the jets left off smoke trail of different colours, e.g., black, red, green, blue, and golden colour of the new South African flag. In the end, two National Anthems were sung by the whites and the blacks. The white sang Nkosi sikelel the old song and the black sang Die Stem the new song.

Later on that day, Mandela reformed history. In the first decade of the 20th Century, a few years after Anglo-Boer War before his birth, the white skinned patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination against the dark skinned people of South Africa. It was the birth of Apartheid, the harshest in human creation. Now, in the last decade of the 20th century, the system has been overturned forever recognizing the rights of all people irrespective of the colour of their skin or religion.

On the auspicious day Mandela regretted the loss of thousands of people and remembered their sacrifice for the freedom from discrimination. He thought of himself as the sum of all those African patriots who sacrificed their lives before him.

It was a reign of oppression and cruelty that created a deep wound in African people. But deep oppression produced the Oliver Tambos, the Walter Sisulus, the Yusuf Dadoos. The Chief Luthulis, the Bram Fischers, the Robert Sobukwes etc. – men of unparallel courage, wisdom and generosity. He learnt that courage is not lack of fear but victory over that fear. Mandela thinks South Africa’s real wealth is her people who are finer, truer than the purest diamonds. His comrades taught him what courage meant.

It is not the absence of fear but victory over it. No one is born to hate another on the basis of colour of skin or religion. If they can learn to hate, then why not learn to love which comes naturally. He believes in the goodness of man that never dies.

Mandela believe that every man has two obligations, one towards his family and the other towards his people and his country. He believed that in a civil and human society every man is able to fulfill both of them. But a black born in South Africa , just like him, cannot fulfill both. In order to do something for his nation, Mandela was taken away from his family. Thus, he could never fulfil his obligations towards his family.

Mandela remembered that as a child, freedom for him meant being able to do what he wanted. As long as he obeyed his father and the rules of his tribe, he was free in every possible way. As a student, he wanted freedom just for himself. Then as a young man in Johannesburg, he wanted freedom to achieve his dreams, start a family, earn for himself etc. As he grew up, he started realising that the freedom that he enjoyed as a child was just an illusion.

Mandela realised that his complete community including him lacked freedom. Then, he joined the African National Congress with a desire to gain freedom, respect and dignity for his community. The desire for freedom for people as a whole changed his whole life. He transformed from a frightened young man to a bold person which turned him from a law abiding person to become a criminal. He realised that freedom is indivisible.

Mandela realised that he could not enjoy his freedom when his community was not free. He also realised that just like oppressed (torturer), the oppressor (tortured) is also not free. The oppressed is a prisoner of hatred, prejudice and narrow-mindedness. Thus, both the oppressor and the oppressed alike are robbed of their humanity. Both of them must be liberated.

Word Meanings

About Mrs Shilpi Nagpal

Author of this website, Mrs. Shilpi Nagpal is MSc (Hons, Chemistry) and BSc (Hons, Chemistry) from Delhi University, B.Ed. (I. P. University) and has many years of experience in teaching. She has started this educational website with the mindset of spreading free education to everyone.

Reader Interactions

July 4, 2021 at 9:35 am

Thanks for this And your mindset is nice of spreading free education.

September 23, 2021 at 5:51 am

Nice word with it’s meaning. Good

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When and where was Nelson Mandela born?

When did nelson mandela die, what is nelson mandela known for, to whom was nelson mandela married, what publications did nelson mandela write.

Nelson Mandela

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• Official Site of the Nelson Mandela Foundation
• The Elders - Nelson Mandela
• South African History Online - Biography of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
• The Nobel Prize - Biography of Nelson Mandela
• Nelson Mandela - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11)
• Nelson Mandela - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)
• Table Of Contents

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, also known as Madiba, was born Rolihlahla Mandela on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa; the name Nelson was later added by one of his teachers. His father, the chief of the Madiba clan of the Xhosa -speaking Tembu people, died when Nelson was still young, and he was raised by Jongintaba, the regent of the Tembu. Although Nelson had a claim to the chieftainship, he renounced it in order to become a lawyer.

Nelson Mandela died on December 5, 2013, in Johannesburg . He was 95 years old. After his death was announced, his life was remembered and celebrated in South Africa as well as around the world. Numerous memorial services were held, including one by the South African government on December 10. He was laid to rest at Qunu, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, on December 15.

Nelson Mandela is known for several things, but perhaps he is best known for successfully leading the resistance to South Africa’s policy of apartheid in the 20th century, during which he was infamously incarcerated at Robben Island Prison (1964–82). He won the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993, along with South Africa’s president at the time, F.W. de Klerk , for having led the transition from apartheid to a multiracial democracy. Mandela is also known for being the first black president of South Africa, serving from 1994 to 1999.

Nelson Mandela had three wives: Evelyn Ntoko Mase (1944–58); Winnie Madikizela-Mandela (1958–96), who was also a noteworthy anti- apartheid champion; and Graça Machel (1998–2013), who was the widow of Samora Machel , former president of Mozambique (1975–86), and was Mandela’s wife at the time of his death in 2013.

Nelson Mandela’s writings included I Am Prepared to Die (1964; rev. ed. 1986); No Easy Walk to Freedom (1965; updated ed. 2002); The Struggle Is My Life (1978; rev. ed. 1990); In His Own Words (2003); and Long Walk to Freedom (1994), which chronicles his early life and years in prison. Dare Not Linger: The Presidential Years (2017), released posthumously, is the unfinished draft of his second volume of memoirs; it was completed by Mandla Langa.

Recent News

Nelson Mandela (born July 18, 1918, Mvezo, South Africa—died December 5, 2013, Johannesburg) was a Black nationalist and the first Black president of South Africa (1994–99). His negotiations in the early 1990s with South African Pres. F.W. de Klerk helped end the country’s apartheid system of racial segregation and ushered in a peaceful transition to majority rule. Mandela and de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993 for their efforts.

Nelson Mandela was the son of Chief Henry Mandela of the Madiba clan of the Xhosa-speaking Tembu people. After his father’s death, young Nelson was raised by Jongintaba, the regent of the Tembu. Nelson renounced his claim to the chieftainship to become a lawyer. He attended South African Native College (later the University of Fort Hare) and studied law at the University of the Witwatersrand; he later passed the qualification exam to become a lawyer. In 1944 he joined the African National Congress (ANC), a Black-liberation group, and became a leader of its Youth League. That same year he met and married Evelyn Ntoko Mase. Mandela subsequently held other ANC leadership positions, through which he helped revitalize the organization and oppose the apartheid policies of the ruling National Party .

In 1952 in Johannesburg , with fellow ANC leader Oliver Tambo , Mandela established South Africa’s first Black law practice, specializing in cases resulting from the post-1948 apartheid legislation. Also that year, Mandela played an important role in launching a campaign of defiance against South Africa’s pass laws, which required nonwhites to carry documents (known as passes, pass books, or reference books) authorizing their presence in areas that the government deemed “restricted” (i.e., generally reserved for the white population). He traveled throughout the country as part of the campaign, trying to build support for nonviolent means of protest against the discriminatory laws. In 1955 he was involved in drafting the Freedom Charter , a document calling for nonracial social democracy in South Africa.

Mandela’s antiapartheid activism made him a frequent target of the authorities. Starting in 1952, he was intermittently banned (severely restricted in travel, association, and speech). In December 1956 he was arrested with more than 100 other people on charges of treason that were designed to harass antiapartheid activists. Mandela went on trial that same year and eventually was acquitted in 1961. During the extended court proceedings, he divorced his first wife and married Nomzamo Winifred Madikizela ( Winnie Madikizela-Mandela ).

After the massacre of unarmed Black South Africans by police forces at Sharpeville in 1960 and the subsequent banning of the ANC, Mandela abandoned his nonviolent stance and began advocating acts of sabotage against the South African regime. He went underground (during which time he became known as the Black Pimpernel for his ability to evade capture) and was one of the founders of Umkhonto we Sizwe (“Spear of the Nation”), the military wing of the ANC. In 1962 he went to Algeria for training in guerrilla warfare and sabotage, returning to South Africa later that year. On August 5, shortly after his return, Mandela was arrested at a road block in Natal ; he was subsequently sentenced to five years in prison.

In October 1963 the imprisoned Mandela and several other men were tried for sabotage, treason, and violent conspiracy in the infamous Rivonia Trial, named after a fashionable suburb of Johannesburg where raiding police had discovered quantities of arms and equipment at the headquarters of the underground Umkhonto we Sizwe. Mandela’s speech from the dock, in which he admitted the truth of some of the charges made against him, was a classic defense of liberty and defiance of tyranny . (His speech garnered international attention and acclaim and was published later that year as I Am Prepared to Die .) On June 12, 1964, he was sentenced to life imprisonment, narrowly escaping the death penalty .

Introduction: Nelson Mandela - Long Walk to Freedom | English Class 10 PDF Download

About the Author-  Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela   – a Short Biography

Theme of the Story  

The lesson pays tribute to those black heroes and patriots who waged a relentless struggle against the apartheid or the racist regime of South Africa. Here we find a description of the inauguration ceremony held in the Union Buildings attended by politicians and dignitaries from more than 140 countries. Nelson Mandela gives a message of peace and unity of mankind. He foresees a new regime which will be based on the equality of men and women. He hopes that in the new regime there will be no exploitation of man by man. There will be no room for racialism and segregation in the new order.

Word-Meaning

Dawned — (here) presented itself, began,  Pleasantly— in a pleasant way,  Besieged — (here) surrounded closely by,  Dignitaries— persons of high ranks, high officials  their respect— express their honour/respect,  Inauguration — (here) opening ceremony ,

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Back Exercises - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Literature | English | Class 10

There are nouns in the text (formation, government) which are formed from the corresponding verbs (form, govern) by suffixing -(at)ion or ment. There may be a change in the spelling of some verb – noun pairs: such as rebel,

rebellion; constitute, constitution.

1. Make a list of such pairs of nouns and verbs in the text.

rebellion rebel

constitution constitute

formation form

government govern

evaluation evaluate

rejection reject

Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs in brackets.

Martin Luther King’s (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean (subjugate) and   (humiliate) by the police and the legal system. Beatings,   (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest involved non-violent   (resist) to racial injustice.

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Match the italicised phrases in Column A with the phrase nearest in meaning in Column B. (Hint: First look for the sentence in the text in which the phrase in Column A occurs.)

Use the following phrases to complete the sentences given below.

(i) they can be taught to love. (ii) I was born free. (iii) but the triumph over it. (iv) but he who conquers that fear. (v) to create such heights of

1. It requires such depths of oppression 2. Courage was not the absence of fear 3. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid 4. If people can learn to hate 5. I was not born with a hunger to be free.

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Quiz - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

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Back Questions - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Literature | English | Class 10

Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of?

A large number of international leaders attended the inauguration because it was a historic event that marked the installation of South Africa's first democratic, non-racial government . 

It symbolized the end of apartheid , a system of racial domination that had been overturned forever and replaced by a government that recognized the rights and freedoms of all peoples , regardless of the colour of their skin. The day was a common victory for all those who had fought for justice, and it marked the beginning of a new era in South Africa's history.

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 What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him? 

 Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument? 

 How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life? 

Extra Questions - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Literature | English | Class 10

Tenth May dawned bright and clear. For the past few days, I had been pleasantly besieged by dignitaries and world leaders who were coming to pay their respects before the inauguration. The inauguration would be the largest gathering ever of international leaders on South African soil. The ceremonies took place in the lovely sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria. For decades this had been the seat of white supremacy, and now it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different colours and nations for the installation of South Africa’s first democratic, non-racial government. 

a. Who was coming and for what before the inauguration?  b. What happened at the inauguration?  c. Find the word that means the same as ‘commencement’ from the passage.

a. Dignitaries and world leaders were coming to pay their respects before the inauguration. b. The installation of South Africa’s first democratic, non-racial government took place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria in a large gathering of international leaders. c. " Inauguration " means the same as "commencement" in this passage.

What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?

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

What did Mandela realise about his brothers and sisters?

About the Author - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

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The author of the given passages is Nelson Mandela (1918-2013), a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist who served as the President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the country's first Black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election.

Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his activism against apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination that existed in South Africa until the early 1990s. During his imprisonment, Mandela became a symbol of the anti-apartheid movement and gained international recognition. Upon his release, he continued to lead the movement for the abolition of apartheid and became an advocate for human rights and social justice.

Mandela's life and legacy have been widely celebrated and recognized for his dedication to the cause of freedom and democracy, his commitment to reconciliation, and his unwavering belief in the power of forgiveness and nonviolence. He received numerous awards and honours, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. His autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," is a classic of African literature and an inspiring account of his life and struggle.

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Summary - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

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Present Moment

Autobiographical Content

Like India, Africa was also ruled by colonial powers. They had also fought for their freedom. Nelson Mandela was one such leader who had fought for the freedom of Africans. He had spent thirty years in prison during this fight. In 1994, when the first free elections were held then he became the first black president.

After the establishment of the first ................................

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Plot - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

The text consists of several excerpts from speeches and writings by Nelson Mandela, a prominent South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and politician. The first passage describes the difficulty of fulfilling obligations to both one's family and community.....

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Important Lines - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

• "No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion." - This line is important because it speaks to the idea that hatred and bigotry are learned behaviours rather than inherent to human nature. It suggests that through education and exposure, people can unlearn hate and prejudice and embrace love and acceptance instead.
• "Courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." - This line is significant because it redefines courage in a way that emphasizes resilience and perseverance ...

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Themes - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

Understanding freedom.

Mandela's childhood freedom and his realization of its illusion

His hunger for freedom as a young man

Injustice and Oppression

The curtailment of Mandela's

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Vocabulary - Nelson Mandela | First Flight | Class 10 Literature | English

• To be besieged by: to be surrounded by something or someone in a way that feels threatening or overwhelming.
• Amphitheatre: a large outdoor venue with rising rows of seats surrounding a central stage, used for performances or public events.
• Confer : to have discussions with someone in order to make a decision or exchange ideas.
• We who are outlaws: people who are...

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NCERT Solutions for Class 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12

NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela : Long Walk to Freedom

October 1, 2019 by Bhagya

Oral Comprehension Check Page 18,19

Question 1. Where did the ceremonies take place ? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstones? Answer: The ceremonies took place in the campus of the Union Building of Pretoria, which were attended by dignitaries and leaders of many nations. In India; Rashtrapati Bhavan and Red Fort are buildings made of red sandstone.

Question 2. Can you say how 10th May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa? Answer: As South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, may falls in the autumn season. Thus 10th May is an ‘autumn day’.

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Question 3. At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”. What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious human achievement” he speaks of at the end? Answer: By ‘an extraordinary human disaster’ Mandela means to state the practice of apartheid in South Africa. During this there was a racial segregation based on colour and the blacks suffered a lot. They were not allowed to demand freedom or any right. Mandela himself did spend many years on infamous ‘Robben Island’ as a prisoner where he was beaten mercilessly. He considered it as great glorious human achievement that a black person became the President of a country where the blacks were not even considered human beings and were treated badly.

Question 4. What does Mandela thank the international leaders for ? Answer: Mandela felt very privileged to welcome the international leaders at the swearing – in ceremony because not too long ago, the South Africans were considered outlaws. He thus thanks all of them for having come to witness the historical ceremony. This was a gesture of international recognition to a newly born free democratic nation and it could be considered as a common victory for justice, peace and human dignity.

Question 5. What ideals does Nelson Mandela set for the future of South Africa? Answer: Nelson Mandela set the ideals of liberating people from bondage of poverty, deprivation and suffering. He also set the ideal for a society where there would be no discrimination based on gender or racial origins.

Question 1. What did the military generals do ? How did their attitude change and why? Answer: The highest military generals of South African defence force saluted Mandela and pledged their loyalty which was of great significance as during apartheid era they would have arrested him. The change in their attitude was because of struggle and sacrifices put in by many heroes of South Africa. This struggle not only ensured the freedom of a nation struggling with apartheid, bur brought a change in mindsets of many. He believed that love can also be taught and human being is naturally inclined towards love rather than hate.

Question 2. Why were two national anthems sung? Answer: One the auspicious occasion of the inauguration two national anthems: one by the Whites and the other by the Blacks symbolising the equality of the Blacks and the Whites were sung.

Question 3. How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century? Answer: (i) In the first decade of the century, the whites erected a system of racial domination against the blacks, thus creating the basis of one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever known. (ii) In the final decade of the 20th century, the . previous system had been overturned and replaced by one which recognised rights and freedom of all people regardless of color of their skin.

Question 4. What does courage mean to Mandela? Answer: For Mandela courage does not mean the absence of fear but a victory over fear. According to him brave men need not be fearless but should be able to conquer fear.

Question 5. Which does Mandela think is natural, to love or to hate? Answer: For Mandela, love comes more naturally to the human heart than hate.

Question 1. What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention? Answer: Mandela mentions that every man has twin obligations. The first is to his family, parents, wife and children; the second obligation is to his people, his community and his country.

Question 2. What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student ? How does he contrast these “transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”? Answer: Like any other kid, for Mandela freedom meant to make merry and enjoy the blissful life. Once one becomes an adult, antics of childhood looks like transitory because most of the childish activities are wasteful from an adult’s perspective. Once you are adult, you have to earn a livelihood to bring the bacon home. Its only then when you get an honourable existence in the family and in the society.

Question 3. Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/why not? Answer: Mandela does not think that the oppressor is free because according to him an oppressor is a victim of hatred who is behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. He realises that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of their humanity and peace.

Thinking about the Text (Page 24)

Question 1. Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration ? What did it signify the triumph of? Answer: To be the part of the inauguration, international leaders showed a gesture of solidarity from international community to the idea of end of apartheid. It was the significance of the victory of good over evil and triumph of a tolerant society without any discrimination.

Question 2. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots”, who had gone before him ? Answer: By saying that he is simply the sum of all those African patriots, Mandela wants to pay his tribute to all the people who have sacrificed their lives for the sake of freedom. He says that he is grateful to those who had gone before him because those heroes of past had paved the path of co-operation and unity for him. Therefore, he could try to come to power to bring equality for his people with their support.

Question 3. Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument ? Answer: I agree with the statement that depths of oppression create heights of character. Nelson Mandela illustrates this by giving examples of great heroes of South Africa like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu and others who were inspired to sacrifice their lives in the long freedom struggle. India is full of such examples, during our freedom struggle there was a galaxy of leaders of great characters and the oppression of British rule created and encouraged people of noble characters like Mahatma Gandhi, Lala Lajpat Rai, JL Nehru, Chandra Shekhar Ajad, Sardar Bhagat Singh and many more. If we compare them with the quality of political leaders India is having today, then Nelson Mandela seems to be absolutely right;

Question 4. How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience? Answer: With age and experience, Mandela understood the real meaning of freedom. As a young boy, he thought that he was born free and believed that as long as he obeyed his father and abided by the customs of his tribe, he was free in every possible manner. As he grew older, freedom to raise a family and freedom to earn livelihood started dominating his thoughts. Gradually he realised that he was selfish during his boyhood. He slowly understood that it was not just his freedom that was being curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. It was the freedom from fear and prejudice. Age and experience widened his perspective of freedom.

Question 5. How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life? Answer: Mandela realised in his youth that it was not just his freedom that was being curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. This changed the fearfulman to a fearless rebel. He sacrificed the comforts of a settled family life to fight for a greater cause. He joined the African National Congress and this changed him from a frightened young man into a bold one who fought against racial prejudice.

Thinking about Language (Page 24,25,26)

Questions 1. There are nouns in the text (formation, government) which are formed from the corresponding verbs (form, govern) by suffixing – (at)ion or ment. There may be change in the spelling of some verb – noun pairs ; such as rebel, rebellion; constitute, constitution. Make a list of such pairs of nouns and verbs in the text

2. Here are some more examples of ‘the’ used with proper names. Try to say what these sentences mean. (You may consult a dictionary if you wish. Look at the entry for ‘the’) (i) Mr Singh regularly invites the Amitabh Bachchans and the Shah Rukh Khans to his parties. (ii) Many people think that Madhuri Dixit is the Madhubala of our times. (in) History is not only the story of the Alexanders, the Napoleons and the Hitlers, but of ordinary people as well. 3. Match, the italicised phrases in Column A with the phrase nearest meaning in Column B. (Hint: First look for the sentence in the text which the phrase in column A occurs.)

2. Ans: (i) :  This means that Mr Singh regularly invites famous personalities as of the calibre of Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to his parties. (ii) This means that Madhuri Dixit is compared to a landmark in acting in the form of legendary actress Madhubala. (iii) This means that history is not only the story of the great fighters and leaders such as Alexander, Napoleon and Hitler, but also of ordinary people.

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Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela Paperback – October 8, 2013

• Print length 656 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Back Bay Books
• Publication date October 8, 2013
• Dimensions 5.75 x 1.75 x 8.25 inches
• ISBN-10 9780316323543
• ISBN-13 978-0316323543
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0316323543
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Back Bay Books; Media tie-in edition (October 8, 2013)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 656 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780316323543
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0316323543
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.34 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.75 x 1.75 x 8.25 inches
• #160 in South African History
• #702 in Social Activist Biographies
• #3,563 in Political Leader Biographies

About the author

Nelson mandela.

Nelson Mandela was born in Transkei, South Africa, on 18 July 1918. He joined the African National Congress in 1944 and was engaged in resistance against the ruling National Party’s apartheid policies after 1948 before being arrested in August 1962. In November 1962 he was sentenced to five years in prison and started serving his sentence at Robben Island Prison in 1963 before being returned to Pretoria, where he was to later stand in the Rivonia Trial. From 1964 to 1982, he was again incarcerated at Robben Island Prison and then later moved to Pollsmoor Prison, during which his reputation as a potent symbol of resistance to the anti-apartheid movement grew steadily.

Released from prison in 1990, Mandela won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and was inaugurated as the first democratically elected president of South Africa in 1994. He is the author of the international bestsellers Long Walk to Freedom and Conversations with Myself.

© Nelson R. Mandela and the Nelson Mandela Foundation / PQ Blackwell Ltd

Customer reviews

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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to read and easy to go through. They also describe the story as engaging, illuminating, and heartbreaking. Readers also appreciate the themes as inspirational, meticulous, and constantly absorbing information. Overall, they say the book is a great read and a page turner.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book incredibly well-written, interesting, and inspirational. They also say the notes on things Mandela said make great quotes for everyday life. Overall, readers say the book is easy to go through and captures Mandela's legacy.

"...his battle for his people's freedom made the trip even more awe inspiring and humbling. History should never be forgotten, but learned from." Read more

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Customers find the story engaging, spectacular, and heartwarming. They also say it's a good history book on the struggle of an oppressed people. Readers also mention that the book is written with dignity and detail. They say it gives great perspective on the make up of society at the time.

"...for his people's freedom made the trip even more awe inspiring and humbling . History should never be forgotten, but learned from." Read more

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Customers find the themes in the book inspirational, giving great insight into how an organization like ANC works. They say it makes them determined to be a better person. Readers also mention that the book is descriptive, beautifully written, and teaches resilience, persistence, leadership, dignity, and hope.

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Customers find the storyline warm, engaging, and amazing. They also mention that the book makes them happy again.

"...It's exactly what I look for in a book - both entertaining and informative.Definitely a book that everyone should read." Read more

"...What struck me about this autobiography is that it wasn't boring and was actually informative...." Read more

"This book was interesting but not at all what I expected . The narrative is mostly fact-based concerning the process of ending apartheid...." Read more

"...Despite this comment and despite the book's size, it is never boring . Highly recommendable." Read more

Customers find the book's characters decency, kind, thoughtful, and ethical. They also say the book is beautifully constructed and free of rancour.

"...learn from this great man about resilience, persistence, leadership, dignity , and hope! Never give up hope!..." Read more

"...It’s laced with humor, love, judgment , and the inexorable evolution of Nelson Mandela’s soul." Read more

"...The time spent inside Mandela's head helps breed forgiveness , and openess to other's thoughts and a reassurance that God created all men with equal..." Read more

"...His intellect, courage and compassion are to be admired . I look forward to visiting his native land next month." Read more

Customers find the plot alternately funny, heartbreaking, riveting, and heartwarming. They also say the book is well written and a page turner.

"...It’s laced with humor , love, judgment, and the inexorable evolution of Nelson Mandela’s soul." Read more

"...This is a great read and a page turner ." Read more

"...on the make up of society at the time and Mandela recalls quite a few funny moments as well...." Read more

" Riveting , heartwarming, incredibly frustrating all at the same time! What an incredible time and story. Could not put the book down." Read more

Customers are mixed about the insightfulness of the book. Some mention that Madiba is self-effacing, candid about his own shortcomings, and unflinching in his self-judgment. They also say he is very open about his successes and failures. However, other customers feel the book is long with too many irrelevant details.

"...in a rather remote way and with a sometimes irritating lack of explanation or reflection ...." Read more

"...so in his own private biography Madiba is self-effacing, candid about his own short-comings , loyal to his supporters over the years...." Read more

"Very in depth account of the incredible life of NM. Actually too much detail and I would have been very interested in how he ran the country after..." Read more

"...He is unflinching in his self-judgment , meticulous on his reasoning and actions, explaining the inner workings of his half-century as a freedom..." Read more

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Nelson Mandela Long walk To Freedom Question Answers

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Looking for an all-inclusive guide on Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Summary? You've landed on the perfect spot. This impactful chapter is an essential part of the Class 10 English curriculum, and we offer a complete package of resources to help you excel. Whether you're a student who wants to delve deep into Nelson Mandela Walk to Freedom or a parent aiming to aid your child with Class 10 English Chapter 2 Question Answer, our resources are designed for you. Teachers will also find our study aids invaluable for making Class 10 English Chapter 2 more engaging and understandable for students.

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NELSON MANDELA LONG WALK TO FREEDOM

Nelson Mandela long walk to Freedom Class 10 summary

- by Nelson Rolihalahla Mandela

The Inauguration

It was 10th May, the day of oath with a bright and shiny sun. Nelson Mandela was supposed to take oath as the first black President of South Africa. A large number of leaders all from around the world had gathered there to be the witness of the swearing-in ceremony of Nelson Mandela as the first black President. The inauguration ceremony took place in a big open building in Pretoria where the first democratic non-racial government was to be installed.

The Swearing-in Ceremony of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was accompanied by his daughter Zenani. Mr de Klerk was the first person who took oath as second Deputy President followed by Mr Thabo Mbeki who sweared as the first Deputy President of South Africa. Nelson Mandela sweared as the first black President of South Africa. He pledged to obey and uphold the Constitution and to devote himself to the well-being of the people. He also promised to make the nation free from poverty, deprivation, suffering and all sort of discrimination.

Display of the Military Power by South African Jets

When Mandela had taken oath, South African jets displayed the military power. It also showed the loyalty of military to democracy. The highest military generals saluted him. He recounted that they would have arrested him many years before. It was followed by the playing of two national anthems. The whites sang 'Nkosi Sikelel' the old song and the blacks sang 'Die Stem' the new song which marked the end of the ceremony.

Apartheid and South Africa

Nelson Mandela reminiscences (remembers) about days gone by which will soon be the part of history where the whites had formed a system of racial dominance against the blacks. It was the basis of the harsh societies which is now overturned. He says that the policy of apartheid (policy of racial segregation) created a deep and lasting wound on his country and its people.

Now it is the system that recognised the rights and freedom of all people.

Regret of Mandela and Remembrance of Freedom Fighters

On the auspicious day, Mandela regretted the loss of thousands of people and remembered their sacrifices for the freedom from discrimination. He thought of himself as the sum of all those African patriots who sacrificed their lives before him. He was pained that he couldn't thank them.

He recalled great freedom fighters like Oliver, Tambos, Walter Sisulu, Chief Luthuli, Yusuf Dadoo etc who were the men of uncommon courage, wisdom and generosity.

He said that the country is rich in minerals but its greatest wealth is its people.

Goodness and Duties of a Man

The author says that being white or black is not the token of your goodness or superiority. No one is born hating other, people should love one another which comes without force as it is natural. It is man's essential goodness.

A man has to perform duties to his family, community and country which he didn't see in his country before he pushed himself to fight for the blacks. A black man was punished if he tried to live like a human being and forced to live apart from his own people. So, he was not allowed to perform his duties to his family.

Meaning of Freedom by Mandela

As a kid, Mandela had different meaning for being free as he wanted to run in the fields and wanted to stay out at night. As he grew older, he wanted the freedom of livelihood for himself and his family. But soon he realised that such freedom was only an illusion. He realised that his brothers and sisters who looked like him were not free, so he joined African National Congress (ANC). His hunger for freedom became great for the freedom of his people. He desired that everyone should be given the right to live his life with dignity and respect. He wanted the oppressor and the oppressed to be liberated. As no one is free if one is taking someone else's freedom. Only such feelings can bring true freedom for everyone.

NCERT SOLUTION FOR CLASS 10TH ENGLISH CHAPTER 2

Questions (Page No. 18,19,21,24)

(ORAL COMPREHENSION CHECK)

Nelson Mandela class 10 questions and answers

Question. 1 Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?

Answer: The ceremonies took place in the sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The Parliament House in New Delhi, the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi and Madras High Court in Chennai are some examples of Indian public buildings that are made of sandstone.

Question. 2 Can you say how 10 May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa?

Answer: 10 May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa because on this day there was the largest gathering of international leaders on South African soil for the installation of South Africa’s first democratic, non-racial government.

Question. 3 At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”. What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious … human achievement” he speaks of at the end?

Answer: The extraordinary human disaster that Mandela mentioned at the beginning of his speech refers to the inhuman practice of apartheid i.e., the racial discrimination suffered by the blacks at the hands of whites in South Africa. At the end, the glorious human achievement that he spoke of refers to the establishment of South Africa first democratic, non-racial government.

Question. 4 What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?

Answer: Mandela felt privileged to be the host to the nations of the world because not too long ago, the South Africans were considered outlaws. He thus thanked all the international leaders for having come to witness his investiture as President since this event could be considered as a common victory for justice, peace and human dignity.

Question. 5 What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?

Answer: Mandela had high hopes for the future of South Africa. He pledged to liberate all South Africans from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. He also stressed that the beautiful land of South Africa would never ever experience racial discrimination again.

Question. 6 What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?

Answer: The highest military generals of the South African defense force and police saluted Mandela and pledged their loyalty. When the military generals saluted Mandela, he was not unmindful of the fact that not too many years ago, they would not have saluted him, but arrested him. This change in attitude was due to the fact that a new, non-racial government was elected and Mandela was then the President of South Africa.

Question. 7 Why were two national anthems sung?

Answer: On the day of the inauguration, two national anthems were sung, one by the whites, and the other by the blacks. This symbolized the equality of blacks and whites.

Question. 8 How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century?

       i.           In the first decade of the twentieth century, the white-skinned people of South Africa patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination against the dark-skinned people of their own land, thus creating the basis of one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever kno

     ii.           In the last decade of the twentieth century, the previous system had been overturned forever and replaced by one that recognized the rights and freedoms of all peoples, regardless of the colour of their skin.

Question. 9 What does courage mean to Mandela?

Answer: On seeing men stand up to attacks and torture without breaking and thus showing strength and resilience that defied the imagination, Mandela learnt that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.

Question. 10 Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate?

Answer: For Mandela, love comes more naturally to the human heart than hate.

Question. 11 What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention?

Answer: Mandela mentions that every man has twin obligations. The first is to his family, parents, wife and children; the second obligation is to his people, his community and his country.

Question. 12 What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student? How does he contrast these “transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”?

Answer: As a boy, Mandela did not have a hunger to be free as he thought that he was born free. As long as he obeyed his father and abided by the customs of his tribe, he was free in every way he knew. As a student, he wanted certain “transitory freedoms” only for himself, such as being able to stay out at night, read what he pleased and go where he chose. He then talks about certain “basic honorable freedoms” such as achieving his potential of earning his living and of marrying and having a family. He builds the contrast between these two freedoms by stating that the transitory freedoms he wanted were limited to him, whereas the honorable freedoms had to do more with his and his people’s position in the society.

Question. 13 Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/Why not?

Answer: Mandela does not feel that the oppressor is free because according to him an oppressor is a prisoner of hatred, who is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. He feels that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of their humanity.

Questions (Page No. 24)

(THINKING ABOUT THE TEXT)

Question. 1 Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of?

Answer: Before Nelson Mandela became the President, South Africa was in the grips of apartheid and was thus declared an outlaw by other nations. When Mandela became the President, he abolished apartheid and thus diplomatic relations were rebuilt with many countries. The inauguration of a new, non-racial government was a historic moment in South African as well as world history. Thus, several distinguished international leaders attended this inauguration. It signified the triumph of justice, peace and human dignity.

Question. 2 What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him?

Answer: When Mandela says that he was ‘simply the sum of all African patriots,’ he means that he could identify with the unimaginable sacrifices of all those noble and courageous men who fought for the collective freedom of the African people. He was pained that he could not thank them and that they could not see what their sacrifices had wrought.

Question. 3 Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument?

Answer: Yes, I agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character”. Mandela thought that the decades of brutality and oppression had an unintended effect of creating many African patriots with unimaginable heights of character. Thus, he felt that the greatest wealth of South Africa is its people. In similar manner, Bhagat Singh remained courageous while facing utmost cruelty at the hands of British.

Question. 4 How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

Answer: As a boy, Mandela did not have a hunger for freedom because he thought that he was born free. He believed that as long as he obeyed his father and abided by the customs of his tribe, he was free in every possible manner. He had certain needs as a teenager and certain needs as a young man. Gradually, he realized that he was selfish during his boyhood. He slowly understands that it is not just his freedom that is being curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. It is after attaining this understanding that he develops a hunger for the freedom of his people.

Question. 5 How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life?

Answer: Mandela realized in his youth that it was not just his freedom that was being curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. The hunger for his own freedom became the hunger for the freedom of his people. This desire of a non-racial society transformed him into a virtuous and self-sacrificing man. Thus, he joined the African National Congress and this changed him from a frightened young man into a bold man.

Questions (Page No. 24-26)

(THINKING ABOUT LANGUAGE)

Question. 1 There are nouns in the text (formation, government) which are formed from the corresponding verbs (form, govern) by suffixing -(at)ion or ment. There may be a change in the spelling of some verb – noun pairs: such as rebel, rebellion; constitute, constitution.

Make a list of such pairs of nouns and verbs in the text.

Question. 2 Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs in brackets.

Martin Luther King’s_________ (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the _________ (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean ________ (subjugate) and ________ (humiliate) by the police and the legal system. Beatings, _________ (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest involved non-violent ________ (resist) to racial injustice.

Answer: Martin Luther King’s contribution (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the assistance (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger.  In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean subjugation (subjugate) and humiliation (humiliate) by the police and the legal system.  Beatings, imprisonment (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the system.  Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest involved non-violent resistance (resist) to racial injustice.

Question. 3 Here are some more examples of ‘the’ used with proper names. Try to say what these sentences mean. (You may consult a dictionary if you wish. Look at the entry for ‘the’.)

1.     Mr. Singh regularly invites the Amitabh Bachchans and the Shah Rukh Khans to his parties.

2.     Many people think that Madhuri Dixit is the Madhubala of our times.

3.     History is not only the story of the Alexanders, the Napoleons and the Hitlers, but of ordinary people as well.

1.     This means that Mr. Singh regularly invites famous personalities such as Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to his parties.

2.     This means that Madhuri Dixit is compared to a landmark in acting in the form of legendary actress Madhubala.

3.     This means that history is not only the story of the great fighters and leaders such as Alexander, Napoleon and Hitler, but also of ordinary people.

Question. 4 Match the italicised phrases in Column A with the phrase nearest in meaning in Column B. (Hint: First look for the sentence in the text in which the phrase in Column A occurs.)

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