Nelson Mandela, the first black South African president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, passed away on December 5th, 2013 at age 95. Mr. Mandela, a South African statesman, human rights activist, philanthropist, and anti-apartheid revolutionary, is widely remembered for his courage and character during his decades-long struggle against oppression. Born on July 18th, 1918 in Mvezo, Transkei, Mr. Mandela grew up to become a formidable opponent of South Africa’s institutionalized system of racial segregation known as Apartheid. After joining the African National Congress (ANC) and working to organize strike actions, he was arrested and sentenced to life in prison in 1962. Following his release from prison in 1990, Mr. Mandela dedicated the remainder of his life to the cause of freedom and democracy in South Africa, playing a key role in the drafting of a new constitution which was ratified in 1996. Mr. Mandela was beloved among his countrymen for his powerful moral courage and for his unshakeable commitment to democracy and justice. This commitment was recognized in 1993 when he won the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with South African president F.W. De Klerk for their work towards the peaceful termination of the country’s oppressive and violent system of Apartheid. Mr. Mandela is survived by his wife Graca Machel, six children, and numerous grandchildren. His legacy and achievements are respected and appreciated worldwide as a testament to the fight for peace, justice, and equality, and his memory will serve as an inspiration to millions.