Research Paper On Nelson Mandela

Mandela: The Force of Change Nelson Mandela was a driving force behind the South African political revolution. He had a way with words that seemed to reach the people and inspire them to believe in his cause. Mandela was a man of wisdom who favored a peaceful political movement instead of violence. His speech not only helped prove his innocence of some of the charges against him but also promoted the ANC movement. Mandela used the rhetorical appeals to convey the struggle of the South African people. In the end the court declared him guilty but he proved that the government is the African people’s oppressor. He built his case by relating to the people on an emotional level, he states facts to prove his argument and shows the courtroom what

He reminisced in his speech about when he was younger and hearing the tribe elders talking about the heroes of the good old days. Mandela seemed to be striving to become a hero for the newer generation of Africans. Mandela also expressed his sadness about the poor children in the streets. He exclaimed “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to the struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.” This is probably the most memorable quote from this speech because it sums up what Mandela’s life goal is. At this point he expected to either be sentenced to death or life in prison. It is as if he truly believed this is the last sentence the public would ever hear from him. The idea of equal opportunity is what he claimed he would die trying to achieve. Mandela’s appeal to emotion is a important attribute to his speech, he can relate to so many people listening in the courtroom and the people who will read his speech after the