Nelson Mandela Dies at 95
Nelson Mandela, former South African president and the face of the anti-apartheid movement, died Thursday at the age of 95.
He had been suffering from a recurring lung infection.
South African President Jason Zuma announced Mandela's passing Thursday afternoon. "Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father," Zuma said.
He was a leader in the anti-apartheid movement and fought against South Africa's white minority rule. He lead both peaceful protests and military action against the country's governing body, which landed him in jail for 27 years.
He was released in 1990 and was later elected as the first black president in 1994 in South Africa's first free election.
Mandela's impact was felt worldwide. In a press conference Thursday afternoon, President Obama remembered the leader. "I am one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela's life," Obama said. "Let us pause and give thanks for the fact that Nelson Mandela lived."
According to Zuma, Mandela will be given a state funeral. All flags in South Africa will be flown at half staff until the funeral concludes.
