On February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela was released from prison after spending 27 years incarcerated due to his opposition to apartheid in South Africa. Mandela is regarded as one of the most significant political figures in the fight against racial discrimination and oppression, drawing comparisons to Mahatma Gandhi in India. His leadership in the African National Congress (ANC) and fight against institutionalized white supremacy positioned him as a pivotal figure in the global human rights movement.

Nelson Mandela joined the ANC in 1944, eventually becoming its deputy national president in 1952. During his tenure, he spearheaded nonviolent resistance against the oppressive racial segregation policies of the South African government. However, following the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, where peaceful black protesters were killed, Mandela recognized the need for armed struggle and helped organize a military wing of the ANC. He was arrested in 1961 on treason charges, but despite being acquitted, he was apprehended again in 1962 for leaving the country illegally, which led to him being sentenced to life imprisonment.

Mandela's release marked a turning point not only for South Africa but for entire movements advocating for justice and equality worldwide. He went on to lead the nation as its first black president after the end of apartheid, becoming a symbol of peace and reconciliation. His legacy is celebrated not only in South Africa but globally as a testament to the power of resilience and the struggle for human rights.