On this day in 1964, Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life in prison in South Africa. Discover his early life and see what prompted him to join the African National Congress to fight apartheid. Learn about his 27 years of imprisonment and his work - and legacy - as the first black president of South Africa. | Biography

Nelson Mandela: 27 Years in Prison, Forgiveness for All Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for believing Black South Africans deserved justice. When he walked free, he didn’t seek revenge—he became president and forgave his captors. From a boy in a small village to leading the fight against apartheid, Mandela’s courage, resilience, and commitment to equality changed history. He endured harsh prison conditions, personal loss, and relentless oppression—but still chose reconciliation over reve