Today is Nelson Mandela International Day

UN General Assembly declared 18 July “Nelson Mandela International Day” in recognition of the former South African President Nelson Mandela’s contribution to the peace and freedom in 2009. 18 July is Mandela’s birthday.

Nelson Mandela was born in Transkei, South Africa, on July 18, 1918. He is one of the most well-known anti-apartheid activists in South Africa. He was jailed in 1964 for leading the liberation movement against apartheid and for his stance on the human right to live in freedom.

The South African activist and former president Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) helped bring an end to apartheid and has been a global advocate for human rights. He jailed in 1964 and released in 1990. He participated in the eradication of apartheid and in 1994 became the first black president of South Africa. Mandela remained a devoted champion for peace and social justice not only in his own nation but around the world until his death