CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 2 Summary: The CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 2, Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, is an excerpt from Mandela’s autobiography, highlighting his journey from a young boy in South Africa to becoming the country’s first Black President. The chapter describes his historic inauguration on May 10, 1994, marking the end of apartheid and racial discrimination. Mandela reflects on the sacrifices of freedom fighters, the struggles of Black South Africans, and his belief that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to overcome it. He emphasizes that true freedom is achieved when everyone, including both the oppressed and oppressors, is liberated. This chapter from CBSE Class 10 English Prose Class 10 Notes is an inspirational lesson on freedom, resilience, and the true meaning of leadership.
The chapter begins with the historic inauguration ceremony held on May 10, 1994, at the Union Buildings amphitheater in Pretoria, South Africa. The event marked the end of over three centuries of racial discrimination and the beginning of a democratic era. Leaders and dignitaries from various countries attended the ceremony, symbolizing international recognition of South Africa’s newly established democracy.
Mandela, in his speech, expressed gratitude toward the freedom fighters who had sacrificed their lives for justice. He emphasized the importance of equality and unity, ensuring that his country would never again experience racial oppression. Two national anthems were sung at the event – Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika by the Black community and Die Stem by the White community, representing the newfound unity of the nation.
Mandela recalls the inhumane oppression that Black South Africans faced under apartheid, where racial segregation deprived them of their basic rights. He firmly believed that no one is born hating another person and that love comes more naturally than hate. According to him, bravery is not the absence of fear but the ability to overcome it.
Furthermore, Mandela explains the two major obligations of every human being:
Obligation to family – To care for and support one’s loved ones.
Obligation to society and the country – To contribute toward justice, equality, and freedom.
Before independence, fulfilling these obligations was nearly impossible for Black South Africans as they were denied their rights. Mandela felt that both the oppressor and the oppressed need to be freed because the one who oppresses others is also trapped in the chains of hatred and prejudice.
The chapter Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom highlights the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of South Africa’s fight against apartheid.
It teaches the valuable lesson that true freedom is not just about ending oppression but also about ensuring equality, respect, and unity among all people. Mandela’s leadership and vision played a crucial role in transforming South Africa into a democratic nation free from racial discrimination.
His journey reflects the power of perseverance, courage, and the belief that love is stronger than hate. The chapter is an inspiration, reminding us that great change is possible through determination, resilience, and a commitment to justice.
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This summary gives a detailed explanation of Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, covering key events, themes, and important insights from the chapter. It will help students understand Mandela’s struggle against apartheid, his vision for a democratic South Africa, and the significance of freedom and equality.
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