Nelson Mandela is a well-known figure, famous for his struggle against oppression. Born in 1918 in a small village called Mvezo in South Africa, he belonged to the Xhosa tribe, which valued law, courtesy, and education. Mandela’s original name, Rolihlahla, meant “trouble maker” in the Xhosa language. His father, Gadla Henry Mphakanyiswa, was a chief, but British influence weakened tribal chiefs’ authority, leading to his father losing his chief status.

After Mandela’s father passed away, a tribal regent named Jongintaba became his guardian, greatly influencing his life. During tribal meetings, Mandela learned about his people’s struggles, particularly from Chief Joyi, who spoke against white supremacy. Chief Joyi believed that conflict arose when white Europeans arrived, being greedy and taking land that should have been shared, breaking the unity of the tribes.

Although Mandela later discovered some inaccuracies in Chief Joyi’s teachings, they significantly impacted his life by opening his eyes to social injustice.