Published on 12:00 AM, July 02, 2008

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela, a great political leader born in South Africa in 1918, fought against racism, violence, oppression, repression and impoverishment in his country. A Noble laureate for peace in 1993, he became the first black president of South Africa.
His 90th birthday is significant as the USA might elect a black president for the first time in its history which is the consequent inspiration coming from this great man's legacy against racism. Facing a stiff prison term for his anti-government activities, in 1964 Mandela made the following statement before the court:
"During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. 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 need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die."
Long live, Nelson Mandela.