Nelson Mandela's legacy as a leader is defined by several key events in his life. His imprisonment for 27 years marked a significant turning point, bringing global attention to the Apartheid struggle in South Africa. After his release in 1990, Mandela's focus on reconciliation rather than revenge facilitated a peaceful transition from institutionalized racism. He became South Africa's first Black president in 1994, advocating for equality and human rights. Mandela's commitment to education and social justice, globally recognized, transformed him into a symbol of resistance and hope, inspiring future leaders in the fight against oppression.