When Nelson Mandela died last week, millions of people around the world mourned the loss of a global hero. In the video above, South Africans speak about how much Mr. Mandela meant to them. All of us have people we look up to — from history’s giants like Mr. Mandela to our science teacher, grandmother or basketball coach. Who are your heroes?
In the Times Interactive “Reactions to Mandela’s Death,” notable figures and readers of The Times alike share their perspectives on Mr. Mandela’s death.
I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s life. My very first political action — the first thing I ever did that involved an issue or a policy or politics — was a protest against apartheid. I would study his words and his writings. The day he was released from prison it gave me a sense of what human beings can do when they’re guided by their hopes and not by their fears. And like so many around the globe, I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set. — Barack Obama, United States president
Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father. Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss. His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, his compassion and his humanity earned him their love. — Jacob Zuma, South African president
President Mandela accomplished what Adams and Jefferson started and Lincoln attempted … a peaceful transition to freedom for all people. The angels weep, the world lost a great leader. — Jena, North Carolina, Times reader
Students: Read other reactions to Mr. Mandela’s death in the Interactive, then tell us …
In the Times Interactive “Reactions to Mandela’s Death,” notable figures and readers of The Times alike share their perspectives on Mr. Mandela’s death.
I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s life. My very first political action — the first thing I ever did that involved an issue or a policy or politics — was a protest against apartheid. I would study his words and his writings. The day he was released from prison it gave me a sense of what human beings can do when they’re guided by their hopes and not by their fears. And like so many around the globe, I cannot fully imagine my own life without the example that Nelson Mandela set. — Barack Obama, United States president
Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father. Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss. His tireless struggle for freedom earned him the respect of the world. His humility, his compassion and his humanity earned him their love. — Jacob Zuma, South African president
President Mandela accomplished what Adams and Jefferson started and Lincoln attempted … a peaceful transition to freedom for all people. The angels weep, the world lost a great leader. — Jena, North Carolina, Times reader
Students: Read other reactions to Mr. Mandela’s death in the Interactive, then tell us …
- Who are your heroes?
- How do they inspire you?
- What was your reaction to Nelson Mandela’s death? Did you know who he was? Had you studied his life and accomplishments in school? Was he a hero for you?