In South Africa, I feel I am a stranger, at best an animal.
Oliver TamboRead
I am convinced that the world-wide protests during the Rivonia trial saved Mandela and his fellow-accused from a death sentence. But in South Africa, a life sentence means imprisonment until death - or until the defeat of the government which holds these men prisoner.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The world-wide protests during the Rivonia trial played a crucial role in saving Nelson Mandela and his fellow defendants from a harsh fate.
Oliver Tambo emphasizes the significance of international solidarity and activism in safeguarding the lives of political prisoners during the Rivonia trial. He reflects on the gravity of the situation where a life sentence in South Africa was tantamount to a death sentence, highlighting the critical role that global awareness and protest played in influencing the outcome of the trial and protecting the lives of those oppressed by an unjust government.
Themes
MandelaProtestsJusticeFreedomSouth AfricaCourage
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech advocating for human rights and the importance of activism.
More from Oliver Tambo
All quotes →The more pressure you bring from without, the less internal pressure is necessary.
Oliver TamboRead
The sanctions will not kill us. It's apartheid that's killing us.
Oliver TamboRead
How do you deal with a criminal that will not listen to what you have to say and who continues his policy of violence? Some say you continue to talk and let him tire himself out. But nearly 40 years after the institution of apartheid, is there anyone who still believes that verbal persuasion will work?
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The U.S. is the last country that should see itself as an ally of the apartheid system.
Oliver TamboRead
It was of limited usefulness to head great rallies. The government did not listen, and, soon enough, the tear gas and the muzzles of the guns were turned against the people. The justice of our cries went unrecognized.
Oliver TamboRead
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