Nelson Mandela was a prominent figure in Black history, renowned for his leadership and activism in the fight against apartheid in South Africa. He was born on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo in South Africa. Mandela became involved in the anti-apartheid movement and joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1943.

Mandela was instrumental in advocating for nonviolent resistance against the oppressive apartheid regime, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa. He was arrested multiple times for his activism and ultimately sentenced to life in prison in 1964 for sabotage and conspiracy to overthrow the government.

Mandela spent 27 years in prison, during which he became a symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality. He was finally released in 1990, and in 1994, Mandela was elected as the first Black president of South Africa in the country's first fully representative democratic election.

During his presidency, Mandela worked to reconcile the deeply divided nation and promote racial harmony through his policy of reconciliation and forgiveness. He also focused on addressing the social and economic disparities in South Africa.

Nelson Mandela's legacy as a champion of human rights, justice, and equality has left an indelible mark on Black history and the global struggle for freedom. He passed away on December 5, 2013, but his impact continues to inspire people around the world to fight against injustice and discrimination.