Books in Great Lives series

Discover the 20th century's most dynamic and fascinating history makers. These inspiring life stories pay tribute to the character, determination, and personal courage of heroes who have made a difference in all our lives.Nelson MandelaHero for DemocracyThe son of a tribal chief, Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to fighting against apartheid for his people's freedom -- despite the fact he spent twenty-seven years behind bars. But on a bright afternoon in February 1990, Mandela walked through the gates of prison and stepped onto the world stage, committed to lead South Africans of all races from tyranny to real democracy.This is the moving story of Mandela's life, as well as a gripping portrait of South Africa and its remarkable transformation. Yet democracy did not happen overnight, and this volume chronicles Mandela's grueling negotiations with then-president de Klerk as they worked to hammer out the country's constitution, the vehement resistance by the right-wing Boers, the historic election as the world held its breath, a look at South Africa's new position in the global community -- and the challenge President Nelson Mandela faces for the future.