This week, leaders from around the world are remembering Nelson Mandela, the former South African president who died last Thursday at the age of 95.
His remarkable life included 27 long years as a political prisoner, followed by his election as South Africa’s first black president.
A stalwart (see definition and hear pronunciation below) supporter of human rights, Mandela is best known for the pivotal role he played in dismantling the system of racial segregation known as apartheid.
Mandela’s perseverance was an inspiration to countless admirers. As he once explained, “Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.”
Rest in peace, Nelson Mandela.
To watch poet Maya Angelou’s tribute to Mandela, go to http://www.youtube.com/user/statevideo
Cool word vocabulary question of the day: Do you consider yourself to be a stalwart supporter of any particular beliefs or principles?
Stalwart: Loyal, steadfast, physically strong.
Click to hear the pronunciation of stalwart: