Nelson Mandela

The former South African president celebrated his special day surrounded by his extended family and friends at his home in Houghton, outside of Johannesburg. At his home, some 92 children, including Mandela’s grandchildren and great grandchildren, and others flown from his native village, Mvezo, sang a special birthday song for him. Earlier in the day, close friends including former Zambian president, Kenneth Kaunda called upon him. Guests also included his second wife, Winnie Mandela.

Days before Mandela’s birthday, the United Nation’s launched the first “Nelson Mandela International Day” which will be commemorated annually on his birthday.

In South Africa, and in other countries, many paid tribute to the iconic African leader by performing 67 minutes of community service to mark the number of years Mandela spent in politics.

U.S. President Barack Obama in extending birthday greetings to Mandela also called on Americans to perform community service in honor of Mandela's birthday. Obama said "We are grateful to continue to be blessed with his extraordinary vision, leadership, and spirit. And we strive to build upon his example of tolerance, compassion and reconciliation… I encourage us all to heed the call to engage in some form of service to others, in honor of the 67 years of sacrifice and service Madiba (Mandela’s nick-name) gave to us… We strive to follow his example of what it means to truly give back to our communities, our nations, and our world… and build upon his example of tolerance, compassion and reconciliation."

Mandela was a staunch fighter for the freedom of Blacks from the racist and oppressive policies known as Apartheid in South Africa. As the head of the African National Congress (ANC), comprised primarily of Black South Africans, he was arrested in 1962 and convicted of sabotage and other charges and sentenced to life in prison. After relentless negotiations on behalf of Mandela, including the efforts of then wife, Winnie Mandela, he served only 27 years in prison. He was freed to great acclaim inside and outside of South Africa on February 11, 1990.

Immediately on his release Mandela sought to forge a multi-racial democracy with the then South African government. In 1994 the first multi-racial democratic elections were held in South Africa and Mandela was elected president – a post he held until his retirement in 1999. His primary mission during his presidency was the realization of reconciliation among the races and various opposing groups in the country.

One of Mandela’s achievements was securing the 2010 World Cup that was recently played in South Africa. Mandela made an appearance, and received a thunderous welcome at the final game of the soccer tournament.

On July 18, Mandela and his third wife, Graca Machel, also celebrated their 12th wedding anniversary.