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Summary
This chapter is an excerpt from Long Walk to Freedom, the autobiography of Nelson Mandela, the first black President of South Africa. It describes his journey from oppression to freedom, the struggle against apartheid, and the significance of his country's independence.
1. The Day of Freedom (10th May 1994)
The chapter begins with the description of 10th May 1994, the historic day when South Africa’s first democratic government was formed. Nelson Mandela took the oath as the first black President at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Leaders from all over the world attended this significant event, which marked the end of the apartheid era.
2. The Apartheid System
Mandela reflects on the apartheid system, where white supremacy dominated for decades, oppressing black South Africans. Under this system, black people had no rights, were discriminated against, and lived in inhuman conditions. However, due to years of struggle, the country finally achieved freedom and democracy.
3. Mandela’s Realization of Freedom
Mandela recalls his childhood in a tribal community, where he felt free. But as he grew older, he realized that freedom was an illusion for black South Africans. They had no political, social, or economic rights. He understood that true freedom is not just for oneself but for everyone in society.
4. The Meaning of Courage and Sacrifice
Mandela emphasizes that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. Many great leaders, including himself, were ready to sacrifice their lives for freedom. He acknowledges the contributions of thousands of people who struggled against apartheid, many of whom did not live to see the day of independence.
5. Twin Obligations of Every Man
Mandela speaks about the two obligations every individual has:
1. Obligation to family – To live with dignity and fulfill personal responsibilities.
2. Obligation to society – To fight for justice and contribute to the community.
During apartheid, black people could not fulfill either of these obligations. Those who resisted the system were jailed or exiled.
6. The True Meaning of Freedom
Mandela concludes that freedom is not just the absence of chains but the ability to live with dignity and equality. He believes that both the oppressor and the oppressed are imprisoned by hatred and prejudice, and only freedom can liberate both.
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NCERT Solutions (Questions & Answers)
Oral Comprehension Check
Q1. Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?
Ans: The ceremonies took place at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, South Africa. In India, some famous sandstone buildings include Rashtrapati Bhavan, Red Fort, and Parliament House.
Q2. Can you say how 10 May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa?
Ans: In South Africa, May falls in the autumn season because the country is located in the Southern Hemisphere, where seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Q3. At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster.” What does he mean by this?
Ans: He refers to the apartheid system, which caused immense suffering to black South Africans for decades. The system denied them basic human rights and forced them to live as second-class citizens.
Q4. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him?
Ans: Mandela acknowledges that he is not alone in the struggle for freedom. Many African leaders and common people fought and sacrificed their lives before him, paving the way for South Africa’s liberation.
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Thinking About the Text
Q1. What ideals does Nelson Mandela set out for the future of South Africa?
Ans: Mandela envisions a South Africa free from racism, discrimination, and oppression. He dreams of a country where all people—black and white—enjoy equality, dignity, and justice.
Q2. What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?
Ans: The military generals, who once followed orders to imprison and suppress black people, now salute Nelson Mandela as the President. This change reflects the transformation in South Africa from oppression to democracy.
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Thinking About Language
Q1. What do these expressions mean?
1. A rainbow gathering of different colours and nations
It refers to the diverse leaders and representatives from all over the world who attended the ceremony, symbolizing unity.
2. The sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement
It means that the victory of democracy and equality will always be remembered and cherished.
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Writing Task
Q. If there are different views within a society, how can they be resolved?
Ans: Differences in society can be resolved through dialogue, mutual respect, and democratic processes. Education, awareness, and peaceful protests help in addressing inequalities and ensuring justice for all.
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Conclusion
This chapter highlights the struggle, sacrifice, and ultimate triumph of Nelson Mandela and
his fellow freedom fighters. It teaches us about courage, equality, and the true meaning of freedom.