MAY 10, 1994. PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA.
The sun shines brightly on the crowd gathered outside the government’s offices. Leaders from all over the world- princes and presidents are here to celebrate with the people. A man walks onto the stage. The crowd stands and cheers. Nelson Mandela is here.
Four years ago, Mandela was in jail. Two weeks ago, he voted for the first time ever. Today, he will become president! Mandela raises his right hand and promises to lead his country. At the age of seventy-five, he is sworn in as the first black president of South Africa.
President Mandela speaks to the crowd about the past. For hundreds of years, South Africa was ruled by white people. Their laws strictly limited the rights and opportunities of anyone who was not white. Mandela thanks everyone who helped change the laws and made sure every South African could vote.
All day long, President Mandela thinks about South Africa’s history, its bright future, and his place in it. He remembers the people who came before him. He is amazed by everything they did to make this day happen. “Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all,” he declares.
Comprehension Questions
1. Where was Nelson Mandela four years before he became president?
A. In college.
B. In Jail.
C. In the United States.
A. Because he knew he would be a great president.
B. Because it would be sunny weather most of the time.
C. Because he saw so much positive change happen from the past to present.
Your Thoughts
Vocabulary
4. List any vocabulary words below.