What Happened On February 11th?

On an early South African morning in 1990, Nelson Mandela, the symbol of resistance against apartheid, was finally walking free. February 11th ended his 27 years of imprisonment, while beginning a new era for South Africa.

Mandela spent years confined within the walls of Victor Verster Prison, but his spirit and his core values never broke. On the day of his release, thousands had gathered outside the prison gates, eager to see their hero free. Cameras from around the world were ready while international helicopters patrolled the area, and millions awaited Mandela’s return .

At 10:45 am, the prison gates creaked open. Mandela, with his signature smile and raised fist, walked out hand-in-hand with his wife, Winnie. He was welcomed with joyous cheers and strains of freedom songs.

Just days after the Stassi was dismantled in Germany, the world seemed to be embracing a sense of change. All over the world, freedom was ringing, and people were excited for a brighter future.

Years of struggle was apparent in Mandela’s weathered face, but his eyes glistened with hope and resilience. This man who had endured years of imprisonment but never lost sight of his ideals inspired people all over the world, especially minority groups in America who dealt with racism.

While in jail, Mandela even earned his Bachelor of Law degree from the University of London, showing that even being locked being behind bars was nit enough to stop his perseverance.

Once he was out, the day was immediately filled with optimistic speeches and celebrations. For the first time in decades, South Africans were given a feeling of hope from racial oppression and injustice.

However, the road ahead was far from smooth. A lot of rebuilding had to be done. In his iconic speech outside the Cape Town City Hall, he called for unity and reconciliation, urging his fellow countrymen to “never again repeat the mistakes of the past.”