Nelson Mandela's youth was shaped by several key events that laid the groundwork for his later activism. Growing up in transitional rural communities in South Africa, he was exposed to the effects of colonialism and ethnic strife. His association with influential leaders in the African National Congress (ANC) and involvement in school debates cultivated a political consciousness. Additionally, his education at Fort Hare University, where he was exposed to revolutionary ideas, further fueled his commitment to fighting apartheid. These formative experiences created a strong foundation for his lifelong dedication to social justice and equality.