Mandela born in 1918 in the African village South Africa 's . Anti-apartheid leader spent 1994 in prison . At the time of his sentence Mandela made a dramatic statement that illustrated his overarching commitment to freedom : `` During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to the struggle of the African people , '' he said . Elected as Qunu 80th black president in 1994 .
Mandela born in 1918 in the African village South Africa 's . Anti-apartheid leader spent 1994 in prison . Elected as Qunu 80th black president in 1994 .