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(CNN) — Nelson Mandela, the South African leader considered a global symbol of reconciliation, was loved and admired around the world, appearing in books and films and showered with awards and accolades.
And through his famous phrases, mandela spoke from his time in prison, his fight against apartheid, his rise as a global icon or even made jokes about his career. His words often have a resonance far beyond their original context.
This July 18 marks the birth of Mandela, who during his lifetime was known as “the most famous political prisoner in the world” and as “the Great Black Hope of South Africa.”
These are some of his memorable quotes.
About his life and politics
“In my country we first go to jail and then we become president.”
“The law made me a criminal, not because of what I had done, but because of what I kept because of what I thought, because it was my conscience.”
“I didn’t have a specific belief, except that our cause was just, it was very strong, and it was gaining more and more support.”
On his fight for freedom
“I have come that long road to freedom. I have tried not to faint; I have taken false steps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I’ve taken a moment”
“Only free men can trade; prisoners cannot enter into contracts. Your freedom and mine cannot be separated.
“I can rest for a while, for with freedom comes responsibilities, and I dare not stay, for my long walk is not over yet.”
“To be free we must not only get rid of the chains, but live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
“Many people in this country have paid a price before me, and many will pay the price after me.”
on courage
“I learned that courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave is not the one who does not feel fear, but the one who overcomes that fear.”
“The goodness of man is a flame that can be hidden, but not extinguished.”
On dealing with opponents
“If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.”
“I like friends who have independent thoughts, because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.”
about racism
“I hate racism, because I consider it barbaric, whether it comes from a black or a white.”
About the negotiation
“If you speak to a man in a language he understands, it goes to his head. If you speak to him in his language, it goes to his heart.”
About leadership
“It’s better to lead from behind and put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when good things happen. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
“True leaders must be willing to sacrifice everything for the freedom of their people.”
about education
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”
about fame
“That was one of the things that worried me, being elevated to the position of a demigod, because then you are no longer a human being. I wanted to be known as Mandela, a man with weaknesses, some of them fundamental, and a committed man.” .
