The wisdom of Nelson Mandela: quotes from the most inspiring leader of the 20th century

Nelson Mandela, long-time champion of the anti-apartheid movement and former president of South Africa, died today at the age of 95. He will be remembered for his unrelenting pursuit of racial equality and lifelong struggle against segregation and poverty, as well for his passionate belief in humanity.

On optimism

“I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair.” -Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

On character

Mandela fought against white domination and against black domination, and he would do it again if given the chance

• He cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities
• “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination”
• There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered

On leadership

“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur.”

• Nelson Mandela
• Take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
• Lead from behind but put others at the front

On enemies

If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with the enemy first. Then he becomes your partner.

• “I was called a terrorist yesterday, but when I came out of jail, many people embraced me, including my enemies, and that is what I normally tell other people who say those who are struggling for liberation in their country are terrorists.”
• Khaled Hosseini

On Society

“There are four basic and primary things that the mass of people in a society wish for: to live in a safe environment, to be able to work and provide for themselves, to have access to good public health and to have sound educational opportunities for their children.”

• Oprah Winfrey
• “A critical, independent and investigative press is the lifeblood of any democracy. The press must be free from state interference. It must have the economic strength to stand up to the blandishments of government officials.”
• International Press Institute

On poverty

“Overcoming poverty is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right, the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.” -Ambassador of Conscience Award Acceptance Speech, November 01, 2006

On Changing the World

Long speeches, the shaking of fists, and resolutions out of touch with the objective conditions do not bring about mass action

• Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world
• When history is written, will we be remembered as the generation that turned our backs in a moment of global crisis or will it be recorded that we did the right thing?

On love and personal freedom

No one is born hating another person because of the color of their skin, background, or religion

• If people can learn to hate, they can also learn to love
• Love comes more naturally to the human heart than hate
• Nelson Mandela

On perseverance

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

• Winnie Mandela
• Difficulties break some men but make others. No axe is sharp enough to cut the soul of a sinner who keeps on trying, one armed with the hope that he will rise even in the end.”

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