This visual essay examines the close association between Nelson Mandela and South African national identity. In contrast to an African country like Senegal, where there is a somewhat weak national identity, visitors to South Africa encounter lots of flags and other national markers. The most important symbol for South Africa is without doubt the image of Nelson Mandela, whose release from prison in 1990 and then his tenure as president from 1994-99 stand as foundational for the modern state. This essay presents some of the surprising locations where the image and words of Mandela are displayed. It also draws connections to the life of Mandela and the longer fight for justice in South Africa.
