F.W. de Klerk, who served as the last president of apartheid South Africa, has died at the age of 85 at his home in Cape Town after a battle with lung cancer. His leadership marked a significant turning point in South African history, as he was instrumental in dismantling the apartheid system that enforced racial segregation in the country. De Klerk's role in negotiating the end of apartheid alongside Nelson Mandela earned him a shared Nobel Peace Prize, yet his legacy remains contentious due to his prior defense of the system he later sought to dismantle.

Born in Johannesburg in 1936, de Klerk graduated as a lawyer before stepping onto the political stage, where he held various cabinet positions, culminating in his election as leader of the National Party in 1989. His inaugural speech as president famously called for a 'South Africa free from domination or oppression in any form.' This pivot towards reconciliation helped steer South Africa towards its first multiracial elections in 1994, which marked the end of decades of racial oppression.

Despite his critical role in transitioning South Africa to a democratic state, de Klerk's reputation is marred by his early backing of the apartheid regime. Many view him with skepticism, questioning his motives and the sincerity of his commitment to equality and justice. His death has sparked renewed discussions about the complexities of his legacy, the historical narrative of apartheid, and the ongoing challenges of racial inequality in South Africa today.