The world lost a great humanitarian today when Nelson Mandela passed away at the age of 95. Nelson Mandela was a humble man and will be among the most admired people of the world.
Over the next few days, I’m sure we’ll hear much of President Mandela’s history. His biography is far too extensive to cover completely here but I do want to recognize what an outstanding man he truly was. Mandela literally led his country to democracy after decades of imprisonment and will go down in history as one of the truly greatest men in history. He is a man – like no other!
Upon the announcement of his death earlier today, responses and commentaries started coming out immediately.
British Prime Minister David Cameron immediately tweeted: “A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time.” The flag at 10 Downing Street is at half mast.
President Obama praised Mandela as someone who “bent the arc of the moral universe toward Justice.” He continued, “He achieved more than could be expected of any man.”
Former President George W. Bush issued a statement: “President Mandela was one of the great forces for freedom and equality of our time. He bore his burdens with dignity and grace, and our world is better off because of his example. This good man will be missed, but his contributions will live on forever.”
“He is now resting,” said South African President Jacob Zuma. “He is now at peace.” He continued, “Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost their father.”
Nelson Mandela inspired a generation of activists and left celebrities and world leaders ‘star-struck’. He won the Nobel Peace Prize and raised millions for humanitarian causes.
In 1990, the anti-apartheid activist and first black president of South Africa delivered a famous speech in Cape Town after his release from decades in prison. The speech is still widely quoted today. You can watch the incredible moment by clicking here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Qj4e_q7_z4
We offer our condolences and prayers to his family and the people of South Africa over the loss of this great man.