Nelson Mandela was released from prison after 27 years on February 11 , 1990 . He had been imprisoned for fighting against the white minority government of South Africa during apartheid and later became president in 1994. Robben Island , where Mandela was imprisoned , is one of South Africa 's top tourist destinations .
Nelson Mandela was released from prison after 27 years on February 11 , 1990 . His struggle against apartheid in South Africa is marked by many historic sites . Robben Island , where Mandela was imprisoned , is one of South Africa 's top tourist destinations .