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Cover of Nelson Mandelas collection of speeches

Books of Influence

I am Prepared to Die

Nelson Mandela

1970


'I am prepared to die' were the closing words from Mandela’s statement from the dock at the commencement of the defence case in the Rivonia Trial at the Pretoria Supreme Court in April 1964. His speech has been widely reproduced in many forms, including this pamphlet published by Christian Action Publications Ltd, for the International Defence and Aid Fund, London.

Mandela (born 1918) was already incarcerated, serving a five-year sentence for crimes of leaving the country illegally and incitement to strike. The Rivonia Trial resulted in further charges and a sentence of life imprisonment. 

Mandela’s powerful statement revealed his moral integrity and strength of conviction in the struggle for equality for all South Africans.

His words garnered support from individuals and organisations across the world, creating a momentum for change which ultimately brought about an end to apartheid in South Africa.