Nelson Mandela: Inaugural Address

( 1994 ) Commentary by Christopher Saunders, University of Cape Town, South Africa

“We dedicate this day to all the heroes and heroines in this country and the rest of the world who sacrificed in many ways and surrendered their lives so that we could be free. Their dreams have become reality. Freedom is their reward.” - Paragraphs 21–22
“We know it well that none of us acting alone can achieve success. We must therefore act together as a united people, for national reconciliation, for nation building, for the birth of a new world.” - Paragraphs 25–26
“Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all. Let there be work, bread, water and salt for all. Let each know that for each the body, the mind and the soul have been freed to fulfill themselves.” - Paragraphs 27–30
“Never, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another and suffer the indignity of being the skunk of the world. Let freedom reign.” - Paragraphs 31–32

Nelson Mandela (National Archives and Records Administration)

View Full Size

Related Docs