Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom – Class 10 Summary
Chapter Overview:
This chapter is an extract from Nelson Mandela’s autobiography Long Walk to Freedom. It captures the historic moment when Mandela became the first Black President of South Africa on 10th May 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a democratic nation.
Summary of Nelson Mandela Class 10?
The chapter opens with the inauguration ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, attended by global leaders. Mandela reflects on the long struggle against apartheid—a system of racial segregation that oppressed Black South Africans for centuries.
He recalls the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, and Chief Luthuli, who fought for justice, equality, and human dignity. Mandela emphasizes that no one is born hating another person; hatred is taught, and therefore, love can be taught too.
The day is symbolic: two national anthems are sung—‘Nkosi Sikelel’ by the Black community and ‘Die Stem’ by the white population—representing unity and reconciliation. Mandela pledges to build a nation free from poverty, discrimination, and injustice.
He believes that freedom is not just the absence of oppression, but the ability to live with dignity and equality. The chapter ends with Mandela’s powerful message: true freedom means liberating both the oppressed and the oppressor.
Key Themes
- Freedom and Equality
- Sacrifice and Courage
- Unity in Diversity
- Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Exam-Focused Points
- Author: Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela
- Genre: Autobiography
- Setting: Union Buildings, Pretoria, South Africa
- Date of Inauguration: 10th May 1994
- Message: End of apartheid, beginning of democracy
- Literary Devices: Metaphor, symbolism, repetition
FAQs – Nelson Mandela Chapter
Q1. What is the main idea of the chapter?
→ The chapter highlights Mandela’s journey from oppression to freedom and his vision for a united South Africa.
Q2. Why is 10th May 1994 significant?
→ It marks the day Nelson Mandela became South Africa’s first Black President.
Q3. What does Mandela say about hatred and love?
→ He says people are taught to hate, but love comes more naturally to the human heart.
Q4. What is apartheid?
→ A system of racial segregation that denied basic rights to Black South Africans.
Q5. What does Mandela mean by “freedom”?
→ Freedom means equality, dignity, and the ability to live without fear or discrimination.
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