Nelson Mandela: A Biography by Martin Meredith
Sentenced to life imprisonment on Robben Island for his part in organizing armed rebellion against South Africa's white rulers, Nelson Mandela stayed faithful to his goal of a peaceful, non-racial democracy, and became for many the symbol of hope for their country at the mercy of Apartheid. His release, 27 years later, had a profound effect on his former adversaries and led to a negotiated settlement. Martin Meredith's biography of this man examines not only the successes, but the failures and tragedies, too - his youthful impetuouness, the savagery of his experiences on Robben Island, and his passionate love for his wife Winnie.