On December 15, 2013, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, better known as South Africa’s former president, was laid to rest at the age of 95 in his hometown of Qunu, South Africa.
According to Christopher Torchia at The Associated Press, Mandela’s widow, Graca Machel, and his ex-wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela attended wearing black head wraps and dresses.
Britain’s own Prince Charles, Monaco’s Prince Albert II, and Oprah Winfrey were just some of the guests present for the ceremony. They were joined by Mandela’s children and extended family who reflected on his life.
Who would have guessed that the man who freed South Africans from apartheid, not only spent most of his life behind bars for 27 years, but was also on the United State’s terrorist watch list until 2008?
Despite his aim for racial unity, he was alienated by the both the South African government and the United States for decades. But following the non-violent teachings of Ghandi, Mandela took each hit with courage and grace. He was a man of honour and loyalty.
He was a man who continued to free South Africans from segregation even after he was arrested.
He is a man whose legacy will live on forever.
Alisha Frazer and Rama Kaba
Contributor and Coordinator
