I know we discussed Nelson Mandela not that long ago back at our old home. But seeing as the old guy is turning 90 tomorrow, it seems right to have a thread.
His place in SA history cannot be overstated. Apartheid would have fallen without him, probably also relatively peacefully (Tambo and Sisulu, who were of Mandela's mind, would've filled the void of non-Mandela). But Mandela ensured that the transition was as smooth as it was. Often he would take unpopular decisions, sometimes unilaterally going against ANC policy (such as when he started talking to the apartheid regime while still in jail). His contribution needn't be idealised, but it was heroic.
I've just written a blog post on the man, mainly to vent about those awful 46664 concerts. I make the point that "rarely have the traits of idealism, principle, pragmatism, intelligence, integrity, honour, courage, charisma, charm and generosity of spirit coalesced in one man to such degrees as it has with Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela". I don't think it is an exaggeration. Nelson Mandela is a very exceptional human being.
The full post (with some appropriate music and sound files) is here
His place in SA history cannot be overstated. Apartheid would have fallen without him, probably also relatively peacefully (Tambo and Sisulu, who were of Mandela's mind, would've filled the void of non-Mandela). But Mandela ensured that the transition was as smooth as it was. Often he would take unpopular decisions, sometimes unilaterally going against ANC policy (such as when he started talking to the apartheid regime while still in jail). His contribution needn't be idealised, but it was heroic.
I've just written a blog post on the man, mainly to vent about those awful 46664 concerts. I make the point that "rarely have the traits of idealism, principle, pragmatism, intelligence, integrity, honour, courage, charisma, charm and generosity of spirit coalesced in one man to such degrees as it has with Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela". I don't think it is an exaggeration. Nelson Mandela is a very exceptional human being.
The full post (with some appropriate music and sound files) is here
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