South Africa’s struggle against Apartheid lasted more than 40 years. The changes instituted in the early 1990s, culminating with the election of Nelson Mandela in 1994, came about through the actions of some extraordinary leaders and thousands of their followers. The methods used to achieve this free and democratic society were varied, but the intent was the same: to end the brutal system of Apartheid.

Archibishop Desmond Tutu was a spiritual leader during the Apartheid era, and continues to symbolize the country’s moral compass. Like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Mohandas Gandhi in India before him, Tutu encouraged South Africans to peacefully disobey the laws they found to be unjust and not turn to violence. This method of civil disobedience is often used against rules that support segregation or marginalization of one particular group.

While oppressive governments often intimidate, silence, or imprison those who speak out against them, sometimes speech is suppressed by forcing the outspoken into exile. Banished from her homeland, musician Miriam Makeba had her passport revoked. Hugh Masekela went into self-imposed exile to protest the country’s white-rule. Living abroad for nearly three decades, both used their music and worldwide fame to draw attention to South Africa’s struggle. Masekela’s song Bring Him Back Home captured the changing political spirit and became an anthem for Nelson Mandela’s release from prison.

Many stayed behind to fight, risking imprisonment and even death. ANC leaders Walter Sisulu and Nelson Mandela relayed secret messages from Robben Island prison via their wives, Albertina Sisulu and Winnie Mandela.

Today, all of these people along with Oliver Tambo and Thabo Mbeki, are widely revered as freedom fighters; liberators of an oppressed people. Whether through non-violent protest, artistic expression, or political and armed conflict, each played a crucial part in the transformation of South Africa.

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