Mandela born in 1918 in the South African village Qunu . He was a leader of the struggle against British colonial rule and became president after his release from prison, but he died before becoming head of state. The Sharpeville Massacre sparked riots , strikes and protest demonstrations across South Africa , and the government declared a state of emergency . Elected as South Africa 's first black president in 1994 .
Mandela born in 1918 in the South African village Qunu . He was a leader of the struggle against British colonial rule and became president after his release from prison, but he died before becoming head of state. Elected as South Africa 's first black president in 1994 .