Nelson Mandela
South African anti-apartheid leader and statesman (1918–2013) who spent 27 years in prison before leading South Africa's transition to democracy and serving as its first democratically elected president from 1994 to 1999. His emphasis on reconciliation over revenge made him one of the 20th century's most admired political figures.
As President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela occupied one of the most consequential executive roles in the state. The historical question is how that authority was used, what institutions it reshaped, and what long-term effects it left on the country and wider world.
At a Glance
Nelson Mandela was a politician from South Africa who served as President of South Africa.
During Nelson Mandela's time in public life, the office of President of South Africa was one of the main sites where state power was exercised in South Africa. The historical importance of that role lies in the decisions, coalitions, crises, and institutional outcomes tied to it rather than in prestige alone.
Power Profile
Leads the executive branch with direct national decision-making power
