On 5 December 2013, Nelson Mandela, the first President of South Africa elected in a fully representative democratic election, died at the age of 95 after suffering from a prolonged respiratory infection. He died at around 20:50 local time (UTC+2) at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, South Africa, surrounded by his family. His death was announced by President Jacob Zuma. Reactions from governments, international organizations, and notable individuals, gained worldwide media coverage.
Death of Nelson Mandela
When did this happen? December 5, 2013
Where did this happen? At his home in Houghton, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Quick Facts about Death of Nelson Mandela
27
years in prison
3
spouses
6
children
250+
honors received
Death of Nelson Mandela: What happened?
That is the wrong question. The question is: Where you when Mandela was released from prison? I remember I was home sick and was mindlessly watching TV when all the stations turned to coverage of this event. I was ashamed that I, being young and white, had never heard of Mandela. I watched all day and learned all about this great man who had been in prison since before I was born and had sacrificed so much. I remember as clear as if it was today the people singing and dancing in the streets. I was not there in person but I felt like I was. It will always be one of the most moving and memorable moments of my life and one of the times when TV brought an international audience together. This time not for a death or a tragedy but for a rebirth. Ask people who remembers that day.
When Nelson Mandela died, I was in the garage, underneath the dash of a car installing a stereo. I don’t normally listen to the radio ever, but it tuned in just as the news came on to announce what had happened. A lot of people were saddened by this, including myself so I avoided talking about it or even going onto Facebook for a couple of weeks afterward.