A turning point in the history of South Africa
Nelson Mandela was imprisoned by the apartheid government for 27 years. When the day of his release came it was barely believable for so many. Like D-Day in World War II, it marked the turning point in the history of the liberation struggle in South Africa. Although there was still much work to be done to see the nation free, the war had been won. V-Day was inevitable.
Release MandelaOriginal Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
The long walk to freedom
On 11 February. 1990 Nelson Mandela walked out of Victor Verster prison as a free man. He was arrested in 1962 and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Mandela's release
Crowds were waiting for Mandela to arrive on the day of his release. Thousands of people gathered to watch the landmark event.
Mandela's release (1990-11-02)Original Source: Paul Grendon / South Photos
Waiting with excitement
People were waiting with excitement outside Victor Verster Prison in Paarl.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Raising the flag
ANC supporters celebrate and taunt the police (with an ANC flag) at Cape Town Airport as foreign dignitaries arrive for the imminent release of Nelson Mandela from Victor Verster Prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
A glimpse through the fence
Photographers try to get a glimpse of Nelson Mandela through the fence at the Victor Vester Prison, before his release.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
A special moment
A praise singer outside Victor Vester Prison before Nelson Mandela's release.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
The gates open
Nelson Mandela is a free man and a new era for South Africa starts.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Excitement in Cape Town
ANC supporters rush through to Grand Parade in Cape Town after Mandela's release from prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Home in Soweto
Nelson Mandela speaks to the crowds outside his Soweto home, after his release from prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Welcomed home
Walter Sisulu and Winnie Mandela are by Nelson Mandela's side.
ANC supporters celebrating Mandela's release from prison (1990-02-11) by Graeme Williams/South Photographs and SowetoOriginal Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
It's a celebration
Supporters celebrate Nelson Mandela's release from prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Welcome Mandela
A rally is organised in Soweto where Nelson Mandela addresses the crown.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Cedric Nunn
A warm welcome from Soweto
Soweto welcomes Nelson Mandela on his release from prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Addressing the crowd
Nelson Mandela speaks to the crowds at a rally in Soweto at FNB - First National Bank stadium, after his release from the Victor Vester Prison.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisuluu.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1990-11-02)Original Source: Paul Weinberg / South Photos
The crowd cheer of joy - a new era has begun.
Nelson Mandela released from prison (1994-11-02)Original Source: Graeme Williams / South Photos
11 February 1994: 4 year anniversary
Nelson Mandela outside Victor Verster prison on anniversary of his release from prison.
Photographer — Graeme Williams / South Photographs
Photographer — Paul Grendon / South Photographs
