What led to the release of Nelson Mandela?

Nelson Mandela was released due to mounting international pressure, internal unrest, and the reformist policies of President F.W. de Klerk.

Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid revolutionary and leader of the African National Congress (ANC), was imprisoned for 27 years by the South African government. His release in 1990 was a result of a combination of factors. Firstly, there was mounting international pressure on the South African government to end apartheid and release political prisoners. This pressure came in the form of economic sanctions, boycotts, and diplomatic isolation, which had a significant impact on the South African economy and its international standing.

Secondly, there was increasing internal unrest within South Africa. The 1980s saw a surge in protests, strikes, and riots against apartheid, which were often met with brutal repression by the state. This unrest was not only confined to the black majority population, but also included white liberals and members of the clergy who were increasingly vocal in their opposition to apartheid. The government's inability to quell this unrest highlighted the unsustainability of the apartheid system and the need for reform.

Lastly, the reformist policies of President F.W. de Klerk played a crucial role in Mandela's release. De Klerk, who became president in 1989, recognised the need for change and initiated a series of reforms aimed at dismantling apartheid. These included lifting the ban on the ANC and other opposition parties, releasing political prisoners, and initiating negotiations for a new constitution. De Klerk's decision to release Mandela was a key part of these reforms and was intended to facilitate a peaceful transition to majority rule.

In conclusion, Mandela's release was the result of a complex interplay of international and domestic pressures, as well as the reformist policies of President de Klerk. It marked a significant turning point in South Africa's history and paved the way for the end of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic, multi-racial South Africa.