Introduction:
Nelson Mandela, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and leader of the African National Congress (ANC), was sentenced to life imprisonment for treason in 1964. This decision had a significant impact on South Africa's history and Mandela's personal journey towards justice and equality.

Reason for Sentencing:
The correct answer, option 'B,' states that Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life imprisonment for treason. Treason refers to the act of betraying one's country or government, usually through actions that attempt to overthrow the existing regime.

Details of the Treason Trial:
1. Background: The Treason Trial, officially known as the State vs. Mandela and Others, began in 1956 when 156 anti-apartheid activists, including Mandela, were charged with high treason.
2. Charges: The accused were charged with conspiring to violently overthrow the apartheid government and replace it with a communist state. The government alleged that the ANC and its allies had engaged in activities aimed at destabilizing the state.
3. Non-violent Resistance: It is important to note that Mandela and the ANC were advocates of non-violent resistance against apartheid. They fought for racial equality, human rights, and an end to discriminatory laws.
4. Lengthy Trial: The Treason Trial lasted for four years, during which the accused faced extensive legal proceedings and intense scrutiny from the apartheid government.
5. Acquittal: In 1961, after more than 2,000 hours of court sessions, the court acquitted Mandela and his co-accused. However, this victory was short-lived as the government immediately began arresting ANC leaders and Mandela went into hiding.

Life Imprisonment:
1. Rivonia Trial: In 1963, Mandela was arrested again, this time for his involvement in Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the armed wing of the ANC. He was charged with sabotage and conspiracy to overthrow the government.
2. Life Sentence: The Rivonia Trial resulted in Mandela's conviction and sentencing to life imprisonment in 1964. Mandela and his co-accused were found guilty of sabotage and planning to use violence to overthrow the apartheid regime.
3. Robben Island: Mandela was initially imprisoned on Robben Island, a maximum-security prison off the coast of Cape Town. He spent 18 years there before being transferred to other prisons.
4. Symbol of Resistance: Mandela's imprisonment became a symbol of resistance against apartheid. He continued to inspire the anti-apartheid movement from behind bars, and international pressure for his release grew over the years.

Conclusion:
Nelson Mandela's life imprisonment was a consequence of his unwavering commitment to the fight against apartheid. The treason charges brought against him and his subsequent conviction were part of the apartheid government's efforts to silence and suppress the anti-apartheid movement. Mandela's imprisonment only fueled the determination of those fighting for justice and equality in South Africa, and he eventually emerged as a unifying figure who played a crucial role in the country's transition to democracy.

Answer b