Nelson Mandela Memorial — Honoring a Life Well Lived
July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013 | Age 95 | Anti-Apartheid Activist, Statesman, and President of South Africa
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his opposition to South Africa's apartheid system, then emerged to lead his country's peaceful transition to democracy and serve as its first democratically elected president. He became the world's most celebrated symbol of human resilience, dignity, and reconciliation.
Honor Your Own Loved One
Create a permanent digital memorial page — upload photos, videos, and stories that last forever. Add a QR memorial plaque to their headstone so anyone who visits can scan and remember them.
Create a Memorial →Life and Legacy of Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela's release from prison in 1990, his handshake with F.W. de Klerk, and his inauguration as South Africa's first black president were defining moments of the 20th century. His concept of Ubuntu — 'I am because we are' — became a global philosophy. The Nelson Mandela Foundation and Nelson Mandela Children's Fund continue his humanitarian work. Mandela Day (July 18) is an annual international day of service, encouraging 67 minutes of community work to honor his 67 years of activism. His autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, is among the most-read memoirs of the past century.
Major Achievements and Honors
- Nobel Peace Prize (1993) — shared with F.W. de Klerk
- First democratically elected President of South Africa (1994–1999)
- Presidential Medal of Freedom (2002)
- United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights (1988)
- Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience
- Served 27 years imprisoned on Robben Island
- Over 250 honorary degrees from universities worldwide
Born: July 18, 1918 | Died: December 5, 2013
Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918 and passed away on December 5, 2013 at the age of 95. The cause of death was complications from a recurring lung infection (related to tuberculosis contracted during imprisonment). Nelson Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid activist, statesman, and president of south africa whose work left an indelible mark on the world.
Remembering Nelson Mandela
Memorials for Nelson Mandela have taken many forms around the world. Fans gather each year on the anniversary of their passing to share memories, play music, view tributes, and celebrate the life that was lived. Public tributes, charity initiatives, and artistic tributes continue to spread their message far beyond their lifetime.
If Nelson Mandela inspired you, consider creating a similar lasting tribute for someone important in your own life. A digital memorial page preserves photos, videos, and stories permanently — and a QR memorial plaque connects the physical headstone to that living digital archive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nelson Mandela die?
Nelson Mandela died on December 5, 2013 at the age of 95. The cause of death was complications from a recurring lung infection (related to tuberculosis contracted during imprisonment).
What was Nelson Mandela known for?
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his opposition to South Africa's apartheid system, then emerged to lead his country's peaceful transition to democracy and serve as its first democratically elected president. He became the world's most celebrated symbol of human resilience, dignity, and reconciliation.
What is Nelson Mandela’s legacy?
Nelson Mandela's release from prison in 1990, his handshake with F.W. de Klerk, and his inauguration as South Africa's first black president were defining moments of the 20th century. His concept of Ubuntu — 'I am because we are' — became a global philosophy. The Nelson Mandela Foundation and Nelson Mandela Children's Fund continue his humanitarian work. Mandela Day (July 18) is an annual international day of service, encouraging 67 minutes of community work to honor his 67 years of activism. His autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, is among the most-read memoirs of the past century.
How can I create a memorial page for my loved one?
You can create a free permanent digital memorial at Scan2Remember. Upload unlimited photos, videos, and life stories. For a physical memorial, a QR memorial plaque ($49.90 with free lifetime hosting) attaches to any headstone and lets cemetery visitors scan a QR code to view the full memorial page from their smartphone.
This memorial tribute was created by Scan2Remember to honor the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. We believe every life deserves to be remembered. If you’d like to create a lasting memorial for someone you love, visit our digital memorial page builder or learn about our QR memorial plaques.