I started to make a study of the art of war and revolution and, whilst abroad, underwent a course in military training. If there was to be guerrilla warfare, I wanted to be able to stand and fight with my people and to share the hazards of war with them – Nelson Mandela

In my country we go to prison first and then become President – Nelson Mandela

You know, you can only lead them from behind – Nelson Mandela

I detest racialism, because I regard it as a barbaric thing, whether it comes from a black man or a white man – Nelson Mandela

There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children – Nelson Mandela

There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires – Nelson Mandela