Nelson Mandela: The Black Pimpernel

Nelson Mandela - in his incredible transition from one of the world's longest-detained political prisoners to iconic statesman - became an exemplary figure of integrity and moral fortitude.

In this fascinating essay, Elleke Boehmer traces the Nobel line of inheritance passed from Mandela to Obama, demonstrating how 'Madiba' emerged as a skilled orator and master of political theatre, characteristics which Obama would later adopt to great success. Looking beyond Mandela the symbol, it reveals...