For more than 60 years, Nelson Mandela has stood as an icon of unwavering resolve, determination and eloquence, inspiring South Africa – and the world – in his quest for racial equality. His triumphant walk to freedom after nearly 30 years of imprisonment for standing up against government apartheid is one of the most famous images of the 20th century. In a moving one hour special, National Geographic Channel celebrates the life of one history’s most powerful and dynamic figures, tracing his momentous rise from political prisoner to South Africa’s first black president.
On 7 December at 11 pm, Mandela: His Life and Legacy will give you the chance to follow the historic steps of Mandela’s journey from his childhood growing up in the household of the Thembu royal family to his work as a young lawyer in Johannesburg, his imprisonment, presidential election and enduring legacy. Joining the African National Congress in his 20s, Mandela spent years trumpeting the cause of equality against a hostile government whose racial injustices had taken a firm hold over the wealthiest country in Africa before his arrest in 1963.
Presented by seasoned journalist Mark Austin, Mandela: His Life and Legacy includes poignant commentary from political officials, close friends and allies of Mandela, including former South African president FW de Klerk and former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Archbishop Desmond Tutu as well as fellow prisoner Mac Maharaj.
Imprisoned for nearly three decades, Mandela remained a relentless champion for equal rights and an incredibly strong symbol – with many South Africans and the international community demanding his release. After months of negotiations with the government, Mandela was granted his release in early 1990 when he helped usher in a new era of political and social change within the nation. His tireless efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. And, in 1994, he became the first black South African president – and the first president elected under universal suffrage. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of social and political empowerment.
Mandela: His Life and Legacy is produced for National Geographic Channels International (NGCI) by ITV Global Entertainment. For ITV, producer and director is Peter Higgins. For NGCI, Executive Vice President and Head of International Content is Hamish Mykura.