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Today in History: Nelson Mandela Released From Prison
Landmark civil rights moment occurred 36 years ago on February 11, 1990
Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:39am
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On February 11, 1990, South African anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was freed after 27 years in prison. Mandela's release was a pivotal moment in the fight against apartheid and paved the way for his election as president of South Africa four years later.
Why it matters
Mandela's release from prison was a watershed moment in the global struggle against apartheid and racial segregation. It marked the beginning of the end of white-minority rule in South Africa and the country's transition to democracy.
The details
Mandela was arrested in 1962 and sentenced to life in prison for his role in the armed struggle against the apartheid regime. After 27 years behind bars, the South African government, led by President F.W. de Klerk, finally succumbed to international pressure and released Mandela unconditionally.
- On February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela was released from prison.
- Mandela was elected president of South Africa four years later, in 1994.
The players
Nelson Mandela
A South African anti-apartheid activist who was imprisoned for 27 years before being released in 1990 and later becoming the first president of post-apartheid South Africa.
F.W. de Klerk
The president of South Africa who, under international pressure, ordered the release of Nelson Mandela and began the process of dismantling the apartheid system.
What they’re saying
“The release of Nelson Mandela from prison was a defining moment in the struggle for racial equality and human rights.”
— Barack Obama, Former U.S. President
The takeaway
Mandela's release from prison and subsequent election as president marked the end of apartheid in South Africa and the beginning of a new era of democracy and racial reconciliation. His story continues to inspire people around the world fighting for civil rights and social justice.
