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: A Long Walk to Freedom - Class 10 Summary

Introduction
Nelson Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom is an autobiography written by Nelson Mandela himself. The book chronicles his life journey, from his childhood in a rural village to becoming the first democratically elected president of South Africa.

Childhood and Early Life
- Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in a small village in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
- He belonged to the Thembu tribe and was given the name Rolihlahla, which means "troublemaker."
- Mandela's father passed away when he was just nine years old, and he was raised by his mother and a regent.
- He attended a missionary school and later went to Fort Hare University, where he studied law.

Struggle Against Apartheid
- Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC) and became actively involved in the struggle against apartheid, a system of racial segregation enforced by the white minority government.
- He played a significant role in organizing peaceful protests, strikes, and boycotts to fight against discriminatory laws.
- Mandela's involvement in the armed resistance led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment on Robben Island for 27 years.

Imprisonment and Release
- While in prison, Mandela became a symbol of the anti-apartheid movement and gained international recognition.
- He endured harsh conditions but remained steadfast in his belief in equality and justice.
- Mandela's release in 1990 marked a turning point in South Africa's history and paved the way for negotiations to end apartheid.

Transition to Democracy
- Mandela played a crucial role in the negotiations that led to the dismantling of apartheid and the adoption of a new democratic constitution.
- In 1994, South Africa held its first non-racial elections, and Mandela became the country's first black president.
- He focused on reconciliation, unity, and addressing the injustices of the past through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Legacy
- Mandela's leadership and commitment to justice made him a revered figure both in South Africa and globally.
- He received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize, for his tireless efforts in promoting equality and human rights.
- Mandela's autobiography, A Long Walk to Freedom, serves as an inspirational account of his life and struggle against apartheid.

Conclusion
Nelson Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom is a powerful autobiography that provides insights into the life of one of the greatest leaders of our time. Mandela's journey from a young boy in a rural village to a global icon is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the fight for justice.