Long Walk to Freedom
'Long Walk to Freedom' chronicles Nelson Mandela's remarkable journey from a young activist in the fight against apartheid to becoming South Africa's first black president. It reveals the personal sacrifices and resilience needed to challenge a brutal regime while illuminating the broader struggle for justice and equality. Through gripping anecdotes, Mandela shares his experiences in prison and his eventual vision for a united nation. This memoir is not just a historical account but also a profound reflection on the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. As readers delve into Mandela's life, they are invited to consider the true meaning of freedom and the lengths one will go to achieve it.
By Nelson Mandela
Published: 2013
"I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
The leader of South Africa's anti-apartheid movement chronicles his life, including his tribal years, his time spent in prison, and his return to lead his people.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from Long Walk to Freedom
About the Author
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela (1918-2013) was a prominent South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He is best known for his tireless efforts to dismantle apartheid and promote racial reconciliation in South Africa. Mandela's notable works include his autobiography 'Long Walk to Freedom,' which chronicles his life from childhood, through his 27 years of imprisonment, to his emergence as a leader in the global fight for freedom. His writing style is characterized by its sincerity, depth, and a hopeful vision for humanity, often drawing from his personal experiences to convey themes of justice, perseverance, and the power of forgiveness.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Nelson Mandela
- Published
- October 2013
- Publisher
- Back Bay Books
- ISBN
- 0316323543
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 656
- Genres
- BiographyActivists and Social LeadersPolitical LeadersPolitics and Current Affairs
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
Only the Paranoid Survive
Andrew S. Grove
The Big Short
Michael Lewis
Six Degrees of Paris Hilton
Mark Ebner
Franny and Zooey
J.D. Salinger
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Malcolm X, Alex Haley
Tribe
Sebastian Junger
Assata
Assata Shakur
The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks
Jeanne Theoharis
The Ancient City
Peter Connolly, Hazel Dodge
Angela Davis--an Autobiography
Angela Yvonne Davis
The Vampire
Montague Summers
Lost Children Archive
Valeria Luiselli
The Ultimate University Survival Guide
Jack Edwards
Dropping Ashes on the Buddha
Sungsan Tae Sŏnsa
Sherman
B. H. Liddell Hart
National Insecurity
David Rothkopf
American Caesar
William Manchester
For Country and Corps
Gail B. Shisler
God: A Biography
Jack Miles
The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Clayborne Carson
Richard Nixon
John A. Farrell
Game Changer
Matthew Sadler, Natasha Regan
On the Beach
Nevil Shute
Go Ask Alice
Anonymous
A Sport and a Pastime
James Salter
The Spiritual Brain
Mario Beauregard, Denyse O'Leary
Eleanor Roosevelt
Russell Freedman
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Arnold Schwarzenegger's Book Recommendations
Arnold Schwarzenegger, born in 1947 in Thal, Austria, is a multifaceted personality known for his achievements in bodybuilding, acting, and politics. He gained global fame as a seven-time Mr. Olympia champion, solidifying his status as a bodybuilding icon. Transitioning to Hollywood, he became a leading action star with iconic roles in films like "The Terminator" and "Predator." As the 38th Governor of California, serving from 2003 to 2011, he advocated for environmental initiatives and fiscal reform. Schwarzenegger is also a best-selling author, with notable works including his autobiography "Total Recall: My Unbelievably True Life Story," which offers insights into his diverse and impactful career.
View Collection
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Book Recommendations
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known as AOC, is a U.S. Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district. She gained national attention after winning her seat in 2018 at the age of 29, making her one of the youngest women ever elected to Congress. Ocasio-Cortez is known for her progressive policies, advocating for issues such as Medicare for All, climate change action, and economic justice. She has become a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and uses social media to engage with constituents and the public. Her rise from grassroots activism to Congress has inspired many young people to get involved in politics.
View Collection
Dave Elitch's Book Recommendations
Dave Elitch is a renowned drummer and educator, best known for his dynamic and innovative drumming techniques. Though primarily celebrated for his contributions to the music industry, Elitch has authored several influential articles and educational materials on drumming, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field. His work has been featured in prestigious music publications, where he shares his insights on rhythm, technique, and the art of performance. Elitch's dedication to teaching has also led him to conduct masterclasses worldwide, inspiring a new generation of drummers. His contributions have significantly impacted both the practical and theoretical aspects of modern drumming.
View Collection
Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations
Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Jon Stewart's Book Recommendations
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View Collection
Aileen Lee's Book Recommendations
Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations
Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View Collection
Richard Branson's Book Recommendations
Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, which operates in sectors ranging from airlines to space travel. Branson’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1970s with Virgin Records, and he has since built one of the most recognized brands in the world. Known for his adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks, Branson has pursued innovative ventures like Virgin Galactic, aiming to pioneer commercial space tourism. He is also a philanthropist, focusing on environmental sustainability and global health issues. Branson's bold and unconventional approach to business has made him a global icon of entrepreneurship.
View Collection
Cory Booker's Book Recommendations
Cory Booker is a prominent American politician and author, currently serving as the junior United States Senator from New Jersey since 2013. Before his tenure in the Senate, he was the Mayor of Newark, where he gained national recognition for his efforts to reduce crime and revitalize the city. Booker is also a published author, with his 2016 memoir, "United," offering an insightful look into his political career and personal philosophy centered on social justice and community activism. His literary work emphasizes themes of unity, compassion, and the importance of public service. Booker's contributions to literature and politics highlight his commitment to fostering a more equitable society.
View Collection
Noam Chomsky's Book Recommendations
Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an influential American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and social critic. He revolutionized the field of linguistics with his theory of generative grammar, particularly through his seminal work, "Syntactic Structures" (1957). Chomsky's contributions extend beyond linguistics to political activism, where he is known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and media, encapsulated in works like "Manufacturing Consent" (1988). As a professor emeritus at MIT, his interdisciplinary approach has significantly impacted cognitive science, philosophy of language, and political thought. Chomsky remains a prolific author and speaker, continuing to shape academic and public discourses.
View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations
Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.
View Collection
Bernie Sanders's Book Recommendations
Bernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.
View Collection
James Mattis's Book Recommendations
James Mattis is a retired United States Marine Corps general and former Secretary of Defense, serving under President Donald Trump from 2017 to 2019. Mattis is known for his military leadership during the Iraq War and his command of U.S. Central Command, where he oversaw operations in the Middle East. He is widely respected for his intellectual rigor, strategic thinking, and emphasis on military ethics. After retiring from the military, Mattis has written books, including Call Sign Chaos, reflecting on his leadership experiences. His career has made him a highly regarded figure in both military and civilian leadership circles.
View Collection“I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.”
Long Walk to Freedom
By Nelson Mandela
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.