CBSE Class 10 English First Flight NCERT Solutions: Long Walk to Freedom

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NCERT Solutions PDF Class 10 PDF

This resource provides detailed NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English (First Flight) Chapter 2, "Long Walk to Freedom." It covers key comprehension questions about Nelson Mandela's autobiography, focusing on the inauguration ceremony, the significance of the date, the end of apartheid, and Mandela's vision for a new South Africa. The solutions explain the meaning of 'extraordinary human disaster' and 'glorious human achievement,' thank international leaders, and outline future ideals like poverty alleviation and equality. It also delves into the changing attitudes of military generals and the symbolic meaning of singing two national anthems. These solutions are designed to help students grasp the historical context, Mandela's principles, and the broader themes of freedom and reconciliation, aiding in effective exam revision.

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BoardCBSE
ClassClass 10
SubjectFirst Flight
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
Chapter2. Long Walk To Freedom

Chapter summary

NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 2, "Long Walk to Freedom," focuses on Nelson Mandela's journey. It addresses comprehension questions about the historic inauguration, the symbolism of the day, the fight against apartheid, and Mandela's aspirations for a non-racial, democratic South Africa. The solutions clarify complex ideas like the 'human disaster' of apartheid and the 'human achievement' of a new government, and explore the significance of international presence and national anthems. This chapter's solutions help students understand themes of struggle, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice and equality.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the historical context of apartheid in South Africa.
  • Analyze Nelson Mandela's vision for a democratic and non-racial nation.
  • Explain the significance of the inauguration ceremony and its symbolism.
  • Identify the challenges and ideals for the future of South Africa as presented by Mandela.
  • Interpret the changing attitudes of institutions towards the new government.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Nelson Mandela's autobiography
  • Inauguration ceremony
  • Significance of 10 May
  • Apartheid in South Africa
  • Democratic and non-racial government
  • International leaders' role
  • Ideals for future South Africa
  • Poverty alleviation
  • Equality and non-discrimination
  • Changing attitudes of military
  • Symbolism of national anthems
  • Struggle for freedom

Important topics

  • The end of apartheid
  • Mandela's vision for a new South Africa
  • The significance of the inauguration
  • Themes of freedom, justice, and equality
  • Symbolism in the text

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Questions and Solutions

Question 1

Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?
Solution: The grand ceremonies, marking a historic moment for South Africa, were held in the specially constructed amphitheater of the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This location served as the venue for the installation of the nation's first democratic government. In India, several prominent public buildings are constructed using sandstone, a testament to its architectural significance. Examples include the Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the President of India), and the Supreme Court of India, all located in New Delhi. Additionally, the Madras High Court in Chennai is another notable example of a public building made from sandstone.

Question 2

Can you say how 10 May is an 'autumn day' in South Africa?
Solution: The date 10 May is referred to as an 'autumn day' in South Africa not because of the typical weather patterns associated with that season, but due to its profound historical significance. On this particular day, South Africa witnessed an unprecedented event: the largest gathering of international leaders on its soil. This momentous occasion was the installation of South Africa's first-ever democratic and non-racial government, marking the end of apartheid and the dawn of a new era for the nation.

Question 3

At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions "an extraordinary human disaster". What does he mean by this? What is the "glorious ... human achievement" he speaks of at the end?
Solution: By the phrase "an extraordinary human disaster," Nelson Mandela was referring to the deeply entrenched and inhuman practice of apartheid. This system enforced racial discrimination, subjecting the black majority of South Africa to systemic oppression and suffering at the hands of the white minority. Conversely, Mandela described the establishment of South Africa's first democratic, non-racial government, where a black man held the highest office, as a "glorious human achievement." This represented a monumental victory for justice, equality, and human dignity after decades of struggle.

Question 4

What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?
Solution: Nelson Mandela expressed his gratitude to the international leaders for having graced the historic occasion of his investiture as President. He felt it was a privilege to host the nations of the world, especially considering that not too long ago, South Africans were regarded as outlaws by the international community. The presence of dignitaries from most nations at the swearing-in ceremony was seen as a collective triumph for justice, peace, and human dignity, signifying global acceptance and support for the new South Africa.

Question 5

What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?
Solution: Nelson Mandela articulated a clear vision for the future of South Africa, setting forth noble ideals for the newly formed nation. He emphasized the critical need to alleviate poverty and eradicate the suffering of the people. Furthermore, he aspired to build a society where discrimination based on gender or racial origins would be completely absent, fostering an environment of true equality and inclusivity for all citizens.

Question 1

What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?
Solution: At the inauguration ceremony, the highest-ranking military generals of the South African Defence Force and police force demonstrated their allegiance by saluting Nelson Mandela and pledging their loyalty to the new government. This action marked a significant shift in their attitude towards black South Africans. Previously, during the apartheid era, such officials might have arrested a black leader like Mandela. Their changed demeanor, from potential adversaries to loyal protectors, reflects the profound transformation brought about by the long and arduous struggle for freedom. This struggle not only liberated the nation but also fostered a change in mindset among many, leading to this symbolic gesture of respect and loyalty.

Question 2

Why were two national anthems sung?
Solution: On the day of the inauguration, two national anthems were sung to symbolize the profound transition South Africa was undergoing. One anthem represented the old republic, reflecting the past, while the other represented the new republic, embodying the future. The singing of both anthems served as a powerful pledge from those laying the foundation of a new nation. It signified a commitment to building a society devoid of any form of discrimination, symbolizing the equality of blacks and whites, and celebrating the emergence of a truly multicultural society.

Question 3

How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century?
Solution: (i) In the first decade of the twentieth century, Nelson Mandela describes the system of government in South Africa as one dominated by the white-skinned minority. This period was characterized by the establishment of apartheid, where the white minority imposed their rule and discriminatory policies on the black majority. (ii) In the final decade of the twentieth century, Mandela witnessed and participated in the dismantling of the apartheid regime and the establishment of a democratic, non-racial government. This decade marked the transition to a system where all South Africans, regardless of race, had the right to vote and participate in governance, signifying a move towards true democracy and equality.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the meaning of 'autumn day' in the South African context.
  • Misinterpreting 'extraordinary human disaster' and 'glorious human achievement'.
  • Not fully grasping the symbolic importance of the two national anthems.
  • Overlooking the long-term ideals Mandela sets for South Africa.

Revision tips

  • Focus on understanding the historical background of apartheid before reading the chapter.
  • Pay close attention to the meaning of key phrases used by Nelson Mandela.
  • Summarize Mandela's vision for the future of South Africa in your own words.
  • Connect the events described in the chapter to broader themes of freedom and equality.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What is the significance of 10 May in South Africa, as mentioned in the chapter?

Q2. What did Nelson Mandela refer to as an 'extraordinary human disaster'?

Q3. What does Mandela consider the 'glorious human achievement' at the end of his speech?

Q4. Why were two national anthems sung at the inauguration ceremony?

Q5. What future ideals does Mandela set out for South Africa?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of 'Long Walk to Freedom' discussed in these NCERT Solutions?

The main theme is Nelson Mandela's lifelong struggle against apartheid, his vision for a democratic and non-racial South Africa, and the significance of achieving freedom and equality.

Why is the 'autumn day' reference important in the context of South Africa?

The reference to 10 May as an 'autumn day' is significant because it marked the historic installation of South Africa's first democratic, non-racial government, a pivotal moment after decades of oppression.

How do these NCERT Solutions help students prepare for exams?

These solutions provide clear, detailed answers to comprehension questions, helping students understand key concepts, historical context, and Mandela's ideals, which are crucial for exam success.

What does Mandela mean by 'extraordinary human disaster'?

Mandela uses this phrase to refer to the brutal and inhuman system of apartheid, which inflicted immense suffering and discrimination upon the black majority in South Africa.

What are the future ideals Mandela sets for South Africa?

Mandela dreams of a South Africa free from poverty and suffering, where there is no discrimination based on race or gender, and where all citizens live in equality and dignity.

How does the chapter explain the change in the military generals' attitude?

The solutions explain that the military generals' shift from arresting black leaders to saluting Mandela symbolizes the profound change brought about by the long struggle for freedom and the establishment of a new, inclusive government.

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