CBSE Class 10 English NCERT Solutions: Chapter 2 - Nelson Mandela, Long Walk to Freedom

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This chapter provides NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English, focusing on 'Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'. It delves into the life and struggles of Nelson Mandela, exploring his fight against apartheid in South Africa. The solutions cover key events, Mandela's vision for a new nation, and the significance of his long walk to freedom. Students will understand the historical context of apartheid, Mandela's personal sacrifices, and his ideals for a just and equal society. These solutions offer clear explanations and detailed answers to comprehension questions, aiding students in grasping the chapter's profound messages and preparing effectively for their exams.

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BoardCBSE
ClassClass 10
SubjectEnglish
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
Chapter2. Nelson Mandela , Long Walk to Freedom

Chapter summary

This chapter's NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English focus on 'Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'. It covers comprehension questions related to Mandela's autobiography, detailing his experiences with apartheid, his imprisonment, and his eventual rise to the presidency. The solutions explain the historical significance of his struggle, his vision for a non-racial South Africa, and the symbolic meaning of the inauguration ceremony. They help students understand the core themes of freedom, equality, and human dignity.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the historical context of apartheid in South Africa.
  • Identify the significance of Nelson Mandela's struggle and sacrifices.
  • Explain Mandela's vision for a free and equal South Africa.
  • Analyze the symbolic meaning of events described in the chapter.
  • Articulate the ideals of human dignity and justice as presented by Mandela.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • Nelson Mandela's autobiography
  • Apartheid in South Africa
  • The struggle for freedom and equality
  • Mandela's imprisonment and release
  • The inauguration ceremony
  • Ideals for a new nation
  • Symbolism in the chapter
  • Racial discrimination
  • Human dignity
  • Democracy in South Africa

Important topics

  • The meaning and impact of apartheid
  • Mandela's personal sacrifices and resilience
  • The vision for a non-racial and democratic South Africa
  • The significance of the inauguration ceremony
  • The contrast between past and future systems of government

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Questions and Solutions

Oral Comprehension Check Page 18,19

Question 1

Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstones?
Solution: The inauguration ceremony took place in the sandstone amphitheatre of the Union Buildings in Pretoria. This location was chosen for its symbolic significance. Regarding public buildings in India made of sandstone, prominent examples include Rashtrapati Bhavan (the official residence of the President of India) and the historic Red Fort in Delhi, both of which are constructed using sandstone.

Question 2

Can you say how 10th May is an 'autumn day' in South Africa?
Solution: The date 10th May is referred to as an 'autumn day' because of South Africa's geographical location. South Africa is situated in the Southern Hemisphere of the Earth. In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Therefore, while May is typically associated with spring in the Northern Hemisphere, it is autumn in the Southern Hemisphere, including South Africa.

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 "an extraordinary human disaster," Nelson Mandela refers to the deeply entrenched system of apartheid that had plagued South Africa for decades. Apartheid was a brutal policy of racial segregation and discrimination, where people were oppressed and denied basic human rights based on their skin colour. The "glorious human achievement" he speaks of at the end is the establishment of a non-racial, democratic government in South Africa. This achievement signifies the triumph of equality, justice, and human dignity over oppression, marking a historic moment where a black man could become the President of a nation that had systematically dehumanized its black population.

Question 4

What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?
Solution: Nelson Mandela thanks the international leaders for gracing the occasion of his inauguration as President. He expresses his privilege in welcoming them, noting that not too long ago, South Africans were considered outlaws by the international community due to apartheid. Their presence at the ceremony is seen as a significant gesture of international recognition for South Africa as a newly born, free, and democratic nation. It represents a shared victory for justice, peace, and human dignity.

Question 5

What ideals does Nelson Mandela set for the future of South Africa?
Solution: Nelson Mandela sets forth several key ideals for the future of South Africa. He aims to liberate his people from the "bondage of poverty, deprivation, and suffering." Furthermore, he envisions a society free from all forms of discrimination, particularly those based on gender or racial origins. His ultimate goal is to establish a nation where every individual can live with dignity and have equal opportunities.

Page 21

Question 1

What did the military generals do? How did their attitude change and why?
Solution: The highest military generals of the South African Defence Force and police force saluted Nelson Mandela and pledged their loyalty. This act was profoundly significant because, during the apartheid era, these same individuals would have likely arrested Mandela. Their change in attitude reflects the immense struggle and sacrifices made by countless South Africans. This transformation signifies not only the nation's freedom from apartheid but also a fundamental shift in mindsets, demonstrating that love and understanding can be fostered, and that humans are naturally inclined towards love rather than hate.

Question 2

Why were two national anthems sung?
Solution: Two national anthems were sung during the auspicious occasion of the inauguration to symbolize the unity and equality of all South Africans. One anthem was sung by the White community, and the other was sung by the Black community. This dual performance represented the integration of both groups into the new democratic nation, signifying an end to racial division and the beginning of an era where both Black and White South Africans were recognized and valued equally.

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: Nelson Mandela describes the systems of government in South Africa in two distinct periods:
  1. In the first decade of the twentieth century: Mandela states that the white minority established a system of racial domination against the black majority. This system was characterized by severe oppression and created one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever known.
  2. In the final decade of the twentieth century: By contrast, Mandela notes that this oppressive system had been completely overturned. The final decade saw the dismantling of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic government, marking a significant transition towards equality and justice for all South Africans.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the seasons between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
  • Underestimating the depth of suffering caused by apartheid.
  • Not recognizing the symbolic importance of the inauguration ceremony.
  • Failing to connect Mandela's personal journey to the broader struggle for freedom.

Revision tips

  • Focus on understanding the timeline of events in Mandela's life and South Africa's history.
  • Pay close attention to the meaning of key phrases like 'extraordinary human disaster' and 'glorious human achievement'.
  • Consider the symbolic actions of the military generals and the singing of two anthems.
  • Reflect on Mandela's ideals for the future and how they contrast with the past system of government.

Practice MCQs

Q1. What was the 'extraordinary human disaster' Mandela referred to?

Q2. Why is May 10th described as an 'autumn day' in the context of the chapter?

Q3. What did the saluting military generals symbolize?

Q4. What does Mandela hope to achieve for South Africa's future?

Q5. Why were two national anthems sung at the inauguration?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main theme of the chapter 'Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom'?

The main theme is the long and arduous struggle against apartheid in South Africa, led by Nelson Mandela, and his vision for a free, equal, and democratic nation.

What does 'Long Walk to Freedom' refer to?

It refers to Nelson Mandela's lifelong journey and the collective struggle of the South African people to overcome apartheid and achieve freedom and equality.

Why is Nelson Mandela considered a significant historical figure?

He is significant for leading the fight against apartheid, enduring decades of imprisonment, and becoming the first democratically elected president of South Africa, ushering in an era of racial equality.

How do these NCERT Solutions help students?

These solutions provide clear, detailed answers to the chapter's comprehension questions, helping students understand complex concepts, historical context, and Mandela's ideals, thereby aiding in exam preparation.

What does the chapter say about the systems of government in South Africa?

The chapter contrasts the harsh racial domination system of the early 20th century with the overturned democratic system of the final decade, highlighting the transition Mandela helped bring about.

Important links

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