Nelson Mandela’s first public speech

Cape Town City Hall
What you see here is the Cape Town City Hall, built in 1905. What makes this building special is that on 11 February 1990 this was the place that Nelson Mandela chose to make his first public speech after being released from prison!

Don't you just love that he's released from prison and on that same day addresses the public, opening with:

Friends, comrades and fellow South Africans.
I greet you all in the name of peace, democracy and freedom for all.
I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I therefore place the remaining years of my life in your hands.

4 thoughts on “Nelson Mandela’s first public speech

  1. Ryan

    I agree. That was a historical day for our country. Another interesting fact of Cape Town City Hall the tower of the City Hall has a Turret Clock which strikes the hours and chimes the Westminster quarters. The faces of the clock are made from 4 skeleton iron dials filled with opal. The clock has a 24 hour wheel and lever. The bells were cast by Messrs John Taylor and Co of Loughborough and the clock was supplied by JB Joyce & Co of Whitchurch. Great Post.

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  3. PHILANI SOKHELA

    I think the media shold ply it more so that our yong brothers and sisters can gate the spirit in terms of the national dream for South Africa. FROm PHILANI Sokhela

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