GSEB Class 10 English Solutions Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom

Oral Comprehension Check (Textbook Page No. 18 - 19)

Question 1. Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?
Answer: The ceremonies happened in the campus of the Union Building of Pretoria. In India, some public buildings constructed from sandstone include the Parliament House in New Delhi, the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi, and the Madras High Court in Chennai.
In simple words: The event took place at the Union Building in Pretoria. In India, places like Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan are made of sandstone.

Exam Tip: For location-based questions, state the exact location clearly. For follow-up parts, list examples concisely.

Question 2. Can you say how 10 May is an 'autumn day' in South Africa?
Answer: 10 May is an 'autumn day' in South Africa because on this date, the biggest gathering of international leaders took place on South African ground. This was for the installation of South Africa's first democratic, non-racial government.
In simple words: May 10th is an autumn day in South Africa because a huge meeting of world leaders happened then to set up their new government.

Exam Tip: Explain the significance of the date in the context of the region's climate and historical events.

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?
Answer: By "human disaster," Mandela means that people of color endured great suffering because of discrimination from white people. He viewed it as a truly wonderful human achievement that a black person became the president of a country where black people were not seen as human beings and were treated poorly.
In simple words: Mandela calls the suffering of black people a "human disaster." He sees a black president as a "glorious achievement" because black people were treated badly before.

Exam Tip: Define both terms clearly by referring to the specific historical context of racial discrimination and the subsequent political changes.

Question 4. What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?
Answer: Mandela felt privileged to be the host to the nations of the world, especially since not long ago, South Africans were considered outlaws. He therefore expressed his gratitude to all the international leaders for coming to witness his inauguration as President, as this event could be seen as a shared triumph for justice, peace, and human dignity.
In simple words: Mandela thanked the world leaders for coming to his inauguration. He felt honored because his country was once shunned, and their presence showed a victory for justice.

Exam Tip: Focus on Mandela's gratitude and the symbolic importance of the international presence at the inauguration.

Question 5. What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?
Answer: Mandela outlined ideals such as ending poverty, removing people's suffering, and establishing a society free from discrimination based on gender or racial background. He wanted South Africa to be a nation of equality.
In simple words: Mandela hoped for a future South Africa free from poverty, suffering, and any kind of discrimination like gender or race.

Exam Tip: List the key social and political goals Mandela envisioned for the new South Africa.

Question 6. What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why?
Answer: The highest military generals of the South African defense force and police saluted Mandela and pledged their loyalty. Their stance towards black people had greatly changed. Instead of arresting a black person, they now saluted him, showing a new respect and commitment to the democratic government.
In simple words: Military generals saluted Mandela and promised loyalty. Their attitude changed from arresting black people to saluting them, showing a new respect.

Exam Tip: Describe both the action of the generals and the significant shift in their behavior, highlighting the symbolic change it represents.

Question 7. Why were two national anthems sung?
Answer: On the day of the inauguration, two national anthems were sung. One was performed by the white community, and the other by the black community. This action symbolized the equal standing of both black and white citizens in the new South Africa.
In simple words: Two national anthems were sung, one for whites and one for blacks, to symbolize their new equality.

Exam Tip: Emphasize that the dual anthems represented unity and equality for all races in the new democratic era.

Question 8. 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?
Answer:
(i) In the first decade of the twentieth century, the white-skinned people of South Africa reconciled their differences and established a system of racial dominance against the dark-skinned people of their own land. This created the foundation for one of the cruellest and most inhuman societies the world had ever known.
(ii) In the last decade of the twentieth century, the old system was overthrown permanently and replaced by one that recognized the rights and freedoms of all people, regardless of their skin color.
In simple words: In the early 20th century, white South Africans created a harsh system of racial rule. By the end of the century, this system was replaced by one that gave equal rights and freedoms to everyone, no matter their race.

Exam Tip: Clearly contrast the two periods, detailing the nature of the government in each and the impact on the population.

Question 9. What does courage mean to Mandela?
Answer: For Mandela, courage does not mean having no fear, but rather winning over fear. He believed that brave people don't need to be fearless, but they must be able to conquer their fears.
In simple words: Mandela said courage isn't about not being afraid. It's about beating your fears.

Exam Tip: Memorize Mandela's definition of courage, focusing on the triumph over fear rather than its absence.

Question 10. Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate?
Answer: For Mandela, love naturally arises in the human heart more easily than hatred. He suggests that love is an inherent part of human nature.
In simple words: Mandela felt that love comes more naturally to people's hearts than hate does.

Exam Tip: State Mandela's view directly and briefly explain why he believes it to be true.

Question 11. What 'twin obligations' does Mandela mention?
Answer: Mandela mentions that every person has two main duties. The first duty is towards his family, which includes his parents, wife, and children. The second duty is towards his community, his people, and his country.
In simple words: Mandela talks about two duties: one to family (parents, wife, children) and one to community and country.

Exam Tip: Clearly separate and list the two obligations, ensuring both personal and societal responsibilities are highlighted.

Question 12. What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student? How does he contrast these "transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”?
Answer: As a boy, Mandela believed freedom meant being able to play and enjoy a happy life, just like any other child. As an adult, these childhood behaviors seemed temporary or fleeting. When he became an adult, he yearned for fundamental and respectable freedoms like realizing his potential, earning a living, marrying, and having a family—a life not restricted by law or injustice.
In simple words: As a boy, Mandela thought freedom meant playing. As an adult, he realized this was temporary and sought important freedoms like working, marrying, and living without legal barriers.

Exam Tip: Describe Mandela's understanding of freedom at different life stages and explicitly state the contrast between the two types of freedoms.

Question 13. Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why not?
Answer: Mandela does not think that the oppressor is truly free because, according to him, an oppressor is a captive of hatred. They are confined by prejudice and narrow-mindedness. He believes that both the oppressor and the oppressed are stripped of their basic humanity.
In simple words: Mandela feels oppressors are not free. They are trapped by hate and prejudice, losing their own humanity, just like those they oppress.

Exam Tip: Explain why the oppressor is also enslaved, focusing on the psychological and moral aspects rather than physical confinement.

Thinking About The Text

Question 1. Why did such a large number international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of?
Answer: The presence of many international leaders at the inauguration showed global support for the end of apartheid. It symbolized the victory of good over evil, and the triumph of a society that is tolerant and free from discrimination. Their attendance highlighted the worldwide condemnation of racial segregation.
In simple words: Many world leaders came to the inauguration to show support against apartheid. Their presence meant that good had won over evil, and that a fair, prejudice-free society was triumphing.

Exam Tip: Mention the reason for the large attendance (solidarity) and what it symbolized (triumph over apartheid, tolerance).

Question 2. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots" who had gone before him?
Answer: Mandela wished to honor all the people who had given their lives for the sake of freedom. He believed he was the total of all the African patriots who came before him because their efforts had cleared the path for cooperation and unity. Therefore, he received his people's support to gain power and bring equality to his nation.
In simple words: Mandela meant he represented all past African freedom fighters. Their sacrifices paved his way, allowing him to gain power and bring equality.

Exam Tip: Explain that Mandela saw himself as the culmination of the efforts and sacrifices of previous generations of freedom fighters, inheriting their legacy.

Question 3. Would you agree that the 'depths of oppression' create 'heights of character'? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument?
Answer: Yes, I agree that intense oppression can forge strong character. Nelson Mandela shows this by citing examples of great South African heroes who sacrificed their lives in the long fight for freedom. India also has many such examples from its freedom struggle, where British rule's oppression likely created numerous leaders with strong character. Comparing this with today's political leaders in India, Mandela's observation seems very accurate.
In simple words: Yes, I think severe oppression makes people stronger. Mandela showed this with South African heroes. India's freedom fight also had many strong leaders born from British rule, proving Mandela's point.

Exam Tip: Start with a clear "Yes" or "No" to the agreement, then explain Mandela's illustration and provide your own relevant examples to support the argument.

Question 4. How did Mandela's understanding of freedom change with age and experience?
Answer: With age, Nelson Mandela realized his many duties towards his people, community, and country. As a child, he did not seek freedom because he thought he was born free, believing he was free if he obeyed his father and tribal customs. As a teenager and young man, he had specific desires. Gradually, he understood his boyhood selfishness and realized that not only his freedom but the freedom of all black people was limited. This understanding made him deeply desire freedom for his people.
In simple words: As a child, Mandela thought he was born free. Growing up, he realized his freedom, and that of all black people, was restricted. This made him fight for his people's freedom.

Exam Tip: Describe the evolution of Mandela's perception of freedom, contrasting his naive childhood view with his mature understanding of collective liberty.

Question 5. How did Mandela's 'hunger for freedom' change his life?
Answer: In his youth, Mandela understood that not only his freedom but also the freedom of all black people was being restricted. This personal desire for freedom became a powerful desire for the freedom of his entire people. This longing for a non-racial society changed him into a good and self-sacrificing man, leading him to join the African National Congress, which transformed him from a fearful young man into a courageous leader.
In simple words: Mandela realized black people weren't free, so his personal desire for freedom grew into a fight for everyone's freedom. This made him a brave, selfless leader who joined the African National Congress.

Exam Tip: Link Mandela's personal realization of curtailed freedom to his broader commitment to his people and how it shaped his identity and actions.

Thinking About Language

1. There are nouns in the text (formation, government) which are formed from the corresponding verbs (form, govern) by suffixing -(at)ion or -ment. There may be change in the spelling of some verb-noun pairs, such as: rebel - rebellion constitute - constitution.

Question 1. Make a list of such pairs of nouns and verbs in the text.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Pay attention to suffixes like -tion, -ment, and -ance, which often signal noun forms of verbs. Note spelling changes.

2. Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs given in brackets:
Martin Luther King's ............(contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the ............ (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean ............ (subjugate) and ............ (humiliate) by the police and the legal system. Beatings, ............ (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King's tactics of protest involved non-violent ............ (resist) to racial injustice.

Answer: Martin Luther King's contribution to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the assistance of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean subjugation and humiliation by the police and the legal system. Beatings, imprisonment and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King's tactics of protest involved non-violent resistance to racial injustice.
In simple words: You need to change the action words (verbs) in the brackets into their naming forms (nouns) to correctly complete the sentences about Martin Luther King.

Exam Tip: Understand common noun suffixes like -tion, -ment, -ance, and -ence to correctly convert verbs into their noun forms.

2. Here are some more examples of 'the' used with proper names. Try to say what these sentences mean. (You may consult a dictionary if you wish. Look at the entry for 'the'):

(1) Mr Singh regularly invites the Amitabh ; Bachchans and the Shah Rukh Khans to s his parties.
Answer: This means that Mr Singh regularly invites famous personalities such as Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to his parties.
In simple words: Mr. Singh invites famous people like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to his parties.

Exam Tip: When 'the' is used before a proper noun, especially a surname, it often refers to the family or a group associated with that name, or a person renowned for that quality.

(2) Many people think that Madhuri Dixit is '] the Madhubala of our times.
Answer: This means that Madhuri Dixit is compared to a phenomenon in acting in the form of legendary actress Madhubala.
In simple words: Madhuri Dixit is seen as similar in acting greatness to the famous actress Madhubala.

Exam Tip: When 'the' is used with a proper noun to describe another person, it implies that the second person embodies the qualities or fame of the first.

(3) History is not only the story of the Alexanders, the Napoleons and the Hitlers, but of ordinary people as well.
Answer: This means that history is not only the story of the great fighters and leaders such as Alexander, Napoleon and Hitler, but also of ordinary people.
In simple words: History tells about both great leaders like Alexander, Napoleon, and Hitler, and also about everyday people.

Exam Tip: The use of 'the' before plural proper nouns signifies individuals of a particular type or stature, here referring to historically significant, often powerful, figures.

Question 3. Match, the italicised phrases in column 'A' with the phrase nearest meaning in column 'B'. (Hint : First look for the sentence in the text which the phrase in column A occurs.)
Answer:

Exam Tip: When matching phrases, always re-read the original sentence from the text to understand the context and precise meaning.

Gseb Class 10 English Nelson Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom Additional Important Questions And Answers

Read the following passages and select the most appropriate answers for the questions given below them:

Today, all of us do, by our presence here ... confer glory and hope to newborn liberty. Out of the experience of an extraordinary human disaster that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all humanity will be proud. We, who were outlaws, not so long ago, have today been given the rare privilege to be host to the nations of the world on our own soil. We thank all of our distinguished international guests for having come to take possession with the people of our country of what is, after all, a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity.

Question 1. They are gathered for
A. pondering over an extraordinary human disaster that lasted too long.
B. conferring glory and hope to new born liberty.
C. accepting outlaws.
D. thanking all of their distinguished international guests.
Answer: (B) conferring glory and hope to new born liberty.
In simple words: The leaders are gathered to give honor and hope to the newly gained freedom.

Exam Tip: Identify the main purpose of the gathering as stated in the passage, focusing on the core message of the event.

Question 2. The meaning of the word 'outlaws' here is:
A. one who is out of law.
B. a political leader.
C. a rebel; a nonconformist.
D. an activist.
Answer: (C) a rebel; a nonconformist.
In simple words: "Outlaws" here means people who didn't follow the rules or norms, like rebels.

Exam Tip: Consider the context of the word "outlaws" in the passage; it refers to people previously marginalized or rejected by society.

Question 3. What privilege they have got?
A. To be host to the nations of the world in their own country.
B. To thank their distinguished international guests.
C. To celebrate freedom.
D. To establish justice and peace.
Answer: (A) To be host to the nations of the world in their own country.
In simple words: Their special honor is to welcome leaders from around the world to their own country.

Exam Tip: Look for phrases in the passage that describe a unique opportunity or honor bestowed upon them.

Question 4. For the writer taking possession with the people of their country is ...............
A. involving people to raise voice against the ruling authorities.
B. having experience of an extraordinary human disaster.
C. bringing about justice and peace for human dignity.
D. All of these three.
Answer: (C) bringing about justice and peace for human dignity.
In simple words: For the writer, taking control with his people means bringing fairness, calm, and respect for all.

Exam Tip: Relate the act of "taking possession" to the overarching themes of the passage, such as justice, peace, and human dignity.

A few moments later we all lifted our eyes in awe as a spectacular array of South African jets, helicopters and troop carriers roared in perfect formation over the Union Buildings. It was not only a display of pinpoint precision and military force, but a demonstration of, the military's loyalty to democracy, to a new government that had been freely and fairly elected. Only moments before, the highest generals of the South African defence force and police, their chests bedecked with ribbons and medals from days gone by, saluted me and pledged their loyalty. I was not unmindful of the fact that not so many years before they would not have saluted but arrested me. Finally a chevron of Impala jets left a smoke trail of the black, red, green, blue and gold of the new South African flag.

Question 1. What was the awesome spectacle?
A. View of the Union Buildings
B. An array of South African jets, helicopters and troop carriers roaring in perfect formation.
C. Parade of military force.
D. All of these three.
Answer: (B) An array of South African jets, helicopters and troop carriers roaring in perfect formation.
In simple words: The amazing sight was many South African jets, helicopters, and troop carriers flying perfectly over the Union Buildings.

Exam Tip: Look for the specific description of the aerial display mentioned in the passage as the main "spectacle."

Question 2. The spectacle was demonstrating ...............
A. the military's loyalty to democracy, to a new democratic government.
B. the skill achieved by military air force.
C. the strength that the military had.
D. celebration of victory.
Answer: (A) the military's loyalty to democracy, to a new democratic government.
In simple words: The show was demonstrating that the military was now loyal to the new, democratic government.

Exam Tip: Focus on the underlying political message and the new allegiance conveyed by the military's display.

Question 3. The highest generals of the South African defence force and police pledged their loyalty by ...............
A. putting on ribbons and medals from days gone by.
B. saluting Nelson Mandela.
C. displaying of pinpoint precision of military force.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'.
Answer: (B) saluting Nelson Mandela.
In simple words: The top generals showed their loyalty by saluting Nelson Mandela.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific action performed by the generals that directly symbolized their pledge of loyalty to Mandela.

Question 4. The new South African flag was displayed by ...............
A. the military officials.
B. Nelson Mandela himself.
C. a smoke trail of the black, red, green blue and gold left by a chevron of Impala jets.
D. an spectacular array of South African jets and helicopters.
Answer: (C) a smoke trail of the black, red, green blue and gold left by a chevron of Impala jets.
In simple words: The new South African flag was shown as colorful smoke trails from Impala jets.

Exam Tip: Pinpoint the exact method of flag display as described in the passage, specifically the jet trails.

I was not born with a hunger to be free. I was born free-free in every way that I could know. Free to run in the fields near my mother's hut, free to swim in the clear stream that ran through my village, free to roast mealies under the stars and ride the broad backs of slow-moving bulls. As long as I obeyed my father and abided by the customs of my tribe, I was not troubled by the laws of man or God. It was only when I began to learn that my boyhood freedom was an illusion, when I discovered as a young man that my freedom had already been taken from me, that I began to hunger for it. At first, as a student, I wanted freedom only for myself, the transitory freedoms of being able to stay out at night, read what I pleased and go where I chose. Later, as a young man in Johannesburg, I yearned for the basic and honourable freedoms of achieving my potential, of earning my keep, of marrying and having a family-the freedom not to be obstructed in a lawful life.

Question 1. In his childhood, Nelson Mandela was free to ...............
A. run in the fields near his mother's hut.
B. swim in the clear stream that ran through his village.
C. roast mealies under the stars.
D. All of these three.
Answer: (D) All of these three.
In simple words: As a child, Mandela could run in fields, swim in streams, and roast corn under the stars.

Exam Tip: List all the childhood freedoms mentioned in the passage; if multiple options are correct, choose the "All of these" choice.

Question 2. Riding the broad backs of slow-moving bulls is viewed by Nelson Mandela as
A. a gesture of freedom.
B. a childish play.
C. a silly craze.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'.
Answer: (A) a gesture of freedom.
In simple words: Mandela saw riding bulls as a way of expressing freedom.

Exam Tip: Relate this activity back to Mandela's initial childhood understanding of freedom as natural and unrestricted.

Question 3. Nelson Mandela began to hunger for freedom when ...............
A. he began to learn that his boyhood freedom was an illusion.
B. he discovered as a young man that his freedom had already been taken from him.
C. he wanted freedom only for himself.
D. Both 'A' and 'B'.
Answer: (D) Both 'A' and 'B'.
In simple words: Mandela started craving freedom when he learned his childhood freedom was fake and discovered his freedom was already taken.

Exam Tip: Focus on the two key realizations that triggered Mandela's hunger for freedom: the illusion of childhood freedom and the actual deprivation of adult freedom.

Question 4. As a young man in Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela yearned for such freedom as ...............
A. not to be obstructed in a lawful life.
B. he should be allowed to stay out at night.
C. he should be allowed to go where he chose.
D.All of these three.
Answer: (A) not to be obstructed in a lawful life.
In simple words: As a young man, Mandela wished for freedom to live a legal life without barriers.

Exam Tip: Distinguish between the "transitory freedoms" of youth and the "basic and honourable freedoms" sought in adulthood, focusing on lawful living.

Answer The Following Questions In Three To Four Sentences Each:

Question 1. What promise did Mandela make in the beginning of his oath-taking speech?
Answer: In his oath-taking speech, Mandela thanked all the international leaders and guests, calling it a moment of joy and victory for justice. He promised that South Africa would never again experience the oppression of one group by another. He committed to establishing a society based on equality and human dignity for all its citizens.
In simple words: Mandela thanked world leaders and promised that his country would never again see one group oppress another. He vowed to build a fair society.

Exam Tip: Clearly state Mandela's two main points: gratitude to international leaders and his pledge against future oppression.

Question 2. What freedom meant to Mandela in his childhood?
Answer: During his childhood, Mandela's understanding of freedom was quite limited. He thought it meant being free to run in the fields, swim in the clear streams, roast corn, and ride the broad backs of slow-moving bulls. These were the simple, unrestricted joys of his youth, governed only by tribal customs and his father's rules.
In simple words: As a child, Mandela saw freedom as simple joys: running, swimming, roasting corn, and riding bulls, as long as he followed tribal rules.

Exam Tip: Describe the specific activities Mandela associated with freedom in his childhood, highlighting the simple, unburdened nature of his early views.

Question 3. Why did the inauguration ceremony take place in the amphitheatre formed by the Union Building in Pretoria?
Answer: The inauguration ceremony took place in the amphitheater formed by the Union Building in Pretoria because it marked the first democratic, non-racial government taking an oath in South Africa. Dignitaries from over 140 countries and thousands of South Africans from all races attended, making the day unforgettable. The location itself symbolized the new government's openness and inclusivity.
In simple words: The inauguration was held at the Union Building's amphitheater in Pretoria because it was for South Africa's first democratic, multi-racial government. Many global leaders and local people attended to make it a memorable, symbolic event.

Exam Tip: Explain both the historical significance of the event (first democratic government) and the symbolic importance of the venue (openness, inclusivity).

Question 4. What are the ideals which Mandela set for the future of South Africa in his swearing-in ceremony?
Answer: In his swearing-in ceremony, Mandela emphasized the commitment to free all people from poverty, hardship, suffering, gender-based discrimination, and other forms of prejudice. His primary goal was to establish a society where everyone would live with dignity and equal opportunity, regardless of their background.
In simple words: Mandela's ideals for South Africa included freeing everyone from poverty, suffering, and all types of discrimination. He wanted a dignified, equal society for all.

Exam Tip: List the key social objectives Mandela outlined, focusing on equality, freedom from suffering, and dignity for all citizens.

Question 5. What did Mandela think for the oppressor and the oppressed?
Answer: Mandela consistently believed that both the oppressor and the oppressed are deprived of their humanity. He viewed the oppressor as a captive of hatred, while the oppressed often lacked self-confidence. Therefore, he argued that both groups needed to be set free from these burdens to regain their full humanity.
In simple words: Mandela believed both oppressors and oppressed people lose their humanity. Oppressors are trapped by hate, and the oppressed by lack of confidence; both need liberation.

Exam Tip: Explain Mandela's unique perspective that both parties in oppression suffer, with the oppressor losing humanity through hatred and the oppressed through lack of self-worth.

Question 6. What do you understand by 'Apartheid'?
Answer: 'Apartheid' was a political system that separated people based on their race. Under this system in South Africa, black-colored people were not free, even to carry out their personal and social duties, such as being parents, sons, or husbands. It was a severe form of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination.
In simple words: Apartheid was a system in South Africa that separated people by race. Black people couldn't even perform basic family duties because they weren't free.

Exam Tip: Define apartheid as a political system of racial segregation and mention its impact on personal and social freedoms.

Question 7. Describe the effect of the policy of apartheid on the people of South Africa.
Answer: The apartheid policy was not beneficial for the people of South Africa. It created division and deep pain within the country and among its population. Despite its brutality and oppression, it paradoxically produced many great leaders, like Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Yusuf Dadoo, and Bram Fischer, who became individuals of strong character.
In simple words: Apartheid badly hurt South Africa, causing division and pain. Yet, this harsh system also led to the rise of many brave and strong leaders like Oliver Tambo.

Exam Tip: Discuss both the negative consequences (division, pain) and the unexpected positive outcome (emergence of strong leaders) of apartheid.

Question 8. How is courage related to the brave man according to the author of the lesson?
Answer: The author believes that courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the triumph over it. A brave man is not someone who feels no fear at all, but instead, someone who possesses the inner strength to conquer their fear. True courage comes from facing and overcoming one's anxieties.
In simple words: The author says courage isn't about not feeling fear. It's about beating your fear. A brave person conquers their fear, they don't lack it.

Exam Tip: Explain the distinction between not having fear and overcoming fear, as described by the author, and how it applies to a brave person.

Question 9. Could everyone fulfil the obligations personal or social in South Africa?
Answer: No, not everyone could fulfil their obligations in South Africa. Due to the apartheid system and racial discrimination, black people were severely restricted. If a person tried to meet their personal or social duties, they were often punished and isolated, effectively becoming a rebel in the eyes of the oppressive regime. This system prevented many from living a complete life.
In simple words: No, not everyone could fulfill their duties in South Africa. Black people were punished and isolated under apartheid if they tried, making it impossible for them to live freely.

Exam Tip: Address the question directly and explain why fulfilling obligations was difficult, referencing the oppressive political system.

Answer the Following Questions in Five to Six Sentences Each:

Question 1. What does Nelson Mandela refer to as 'an extraordinary human disaster'?
Answer: Nelson Mandela means the apartheid policy of the white race against black people as an "extraordinary human disaster." White people took away liberty from the colored people of South Africa, who were the country's rightful owners. Black people were forced to endure hardship for a long time. They were not even allowed to fulfill their duties to their own families, community, and nation. White people showed no pity for them, treated their own people badly, and put them in prison. If they had any freedom, it was limited. The black people lived like enslaved people.

Exam Tip: When explaining concepts like 'extraordinary human disaster,' define the term first and then elaborate on its components, such as oppression and lack of freedom, to provide a comprehensive answer.

Question 2. Describe the views of Mandela for the black people who fought and sacrificed their lives for the country's political independence ?
Answer: Mandela often mentioned that political freedom came from the many sacrifices of black people who fought for it. He said that this could not be repaid. He saw himself as representing all those African heroes who had come before him. He felt sad that he couldn't thank them. He condemned the system of apartheid that harmed the nation's people, which would need a very long time to recover.

Exam Tip: When describing Mandela's views, always highlight the themes of sacrifice, gratitude, and the collective struggle for freedom, as these are central to his philosophy.

Question 3. What does Mandela mean to say that the oppressor and the oppressed alike are robbed of their humanity?
Answer: Mandela believes that both the oppressor and the oppressed both lose their human qualities. Both are caught in hatred. Everyone has to fulfill their responsibilities, whether personal or social, but without liberty, a person cannot do this. The person who takes away this freedom from another is truly an oppressor and held captive by hatred. Such a person lacks human kindness. The same holds true for someone who is suppressed by others.

Exam Tip: Focus on the dual impact of oppression; explain how it degrades both the one inflicting it (through hatred) and the one receiving it (through loss of dignity and rights).

Grammar

Question 1. Rectify the errors in each of the following lines as shown in the example: Everyone is born hating the other person because of the colour on his skin, or his background, and his religion. People must taught to love.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Pay close attention to common grammatical errors like subject-verb agreement, pronoun usage, prepositions, and verb tenses. Reviewing example corrections helps reinforce proper usage.

Rewrite as Directed:

Question 1. Rewrite the following sentences as directed:
(1) This inauguration would be the largest gathering ever on South African soil. (Change the Degree.)
(2) On that lovely autumn day, I was accompanied by my lovely daughter Zenani. (Change the Voice.)
(3) The sun will never set on so glorious a human achievement. (Turn into Affirmative.)
(4) It was not only display of military force but a demonstration of military's loyalty to democracy. (Use 'both'.)
(5) I was pained that I was not able to thank them. (Use 'so'.)
(6) I was not born with a hunger to be free. (Use 'without'.)
(7) I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else's freedom. (Use 'unless'.)
Answer:
(1) No other gathering on South African soil would ever be so large as this one.
OR This event would be bigger than any other assembly ever on South African ground.
(2) On that pleasant autumn day, my lovely daughter Zenani came along with me.
(3) The sun will always shine on such a magnificent human achievement.
(4) It was both the display of military force and a demonstration of military's loyalty to democracy.
(5) I was unable to thank them, so I felt sad.
(6) I was born without a desire to be free.
(7) I am free unless I am taking away someone else's liberty.

Exam Tip: Practice different types of sentence transformations regularly. For "change the degree," remember positive, comparative, and superlative forms. For "change the voice," identify the subject and object correctly.

Vocabulary

Question 1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the options: (extraordinary, humanity, glory, liberty) Today, all of us do, by our presence here ......... confer ........................ and hope to newborn .............................. Out of the experience of an 3............ human disaster that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all ........................... will be proud.
Answer:
(1) glory
(2) liberty
(3) extraordinary
(4) humanity

Exam Tip: When filling in blanks, read the complete sentence or passage to understand the context. This helps in choosing the most fitting word that makes logical sense and maintains the flow.

Question 2. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words from the options: (confer, liberty, disaster, humanity) Today, all of us do, by our presence here.......……………………………………...……………………………. glory and hope to newborn …………………………………................ Out of the experience of an extraordinary human ................ that lasted too long, must be born a society of which all ............................ will be proud.
Answer:
(1) confer
(2) liberty
(3) disaster
(4) humanity

Exam Tip: Always review your choices after filling the blanks to ensure the completed sentences are grammatically correct and semantically coherent within the passage's overall message.

Writing

Looking at Contrasts:

Question 1. Nelson Mandela's writing is marked by balance : many sentences have two parts in. Use the following phrases to complete the sentences given below: (1) they can be taught to love. (2) I was born free. (3) but the triumph over it. (4) but he who conquers that fear. (5) to create such heights of character.
Answer:
(1) It requires such intense hardship to build such strong character.
(2) Bravery wasn't about having no fear, but about winning against it.
(3) A truly courageous person isn't one who feels no fear, but one who overcomes that fear.
(4) If individuals can learn how to hate, they can also be taught how to love.
(5) I didn't begin life craving freedom. I was born already free.

Exam Tip: Understand the contrasting elements in each sentence. This helps in choosing the correct phrase that completes the balanced thought or idea. Think about cause-and-effect relationships.

Question 2. This text repeatedly contrasts the past with the present or the future. We can use coordinated clauses to contrast two views, for emphasis or effect. Given below are sentences carrying one part of the contrast. Find in the text the second part of the contrast, and complete each item. Identify the words which signal the contrast. This has been done for you in the first item.
(1) For decades the Union Buildings had been the seat of white supremacy, and now it was the site of a rainbow gathering of different, colours and nations for the installation of South Africa's first democratic non-racial government.
(2) Only moments before, the highest generals of the South African defence force and, police saluted me and pledged their loyalty............... not so many years before they would not have saluted but arrested me.
(3) Although that day neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem ........, they would soon know the words by heart.
(4) My country is rich in the minerals and gems that lie beneath its soil, but I have ; always known that its greatest wealth is its people.
(5) The Air Show was not only a display of pinpoint precision and military force, but a demonstration of the military's loyalty to democracy, to a new government that d been freely and fairly elected.
(6) It was this desire for the freedom of my people ......... that transformed a frightened young man into a bold one, that drove a law-abiding attorney to become a criminal, that turned a family-loving husband into a man without a home.
Answer:
(1) For decades, the Union Buildings served as the center of white rule, and now it hosted a diverse gathering of various peoples and countries for South Africa's initial democratic, non-racial government.
(2) Just moments earlier, the top generals of the South African defense force and police honored me and promised their faithfulness; not long ago, they would have arrested me instead of saluting.
(3) Even though on that day neither side knew the national anthem's words, they would quickly memorize them.
(4) My nation has abundant minerals and jewels hidden beneath its ground, but I have always understood that its true treasure is its citizens.
(5) The air display was not just a showcase of perfect accuracy and military strength, but also proved the army's dedication to democracy, to a new government chosen fairly and openly.
(6) This yearning for my people's liberty changed a scared young man into a brave one, made a law-abiding lawyer into an outlaw, and turned a family-oriented husband into a man without a home.

Exam Tip: When dealing with contrasting ideas, identify the conjunctions (like 'and now,' 'but,' 'although') that connect them. These words explicitly signal the shift or opposition between the two parts of the sentence.

Question 3. Expressing Your Opinion: Do you think there is colour prejudice in our own country ? Discuss this with your friend and write a paragraph of about 100 to 150 words about this. You have the option of making your paragraph a humorous one.
Answer:
Colour Prejudice in our Own Country
Prejudice means an unsupported, bad pre-judgment of individuals or groups, often because of their social position, background, sex, or their particular way of seeing the world. We judge people from this viewpoint. Discrimination happens everywhere. Indeed, others also judge us using the same standards. The question arises whether this is a typical human behavior, naturally built-in, or perhaps some stereotypes and biases are just purposely forced by society. I strongly believe the second statement is true because the key reason we begin treating others unfairly is that they look, act, think, and speak differently. They do not fundamentally come from the same social group, and we feel they are separated or even have a completely baseless feeling of being better than them. Many people are very biased and most do not like to accept differences, as it is far easier to exist in an easy world surrounded by people with the same beliefs, skin color, and social standing, while displaying extreme disrespect for individuals who don't belong to the same group, even if those people could be far more intelligent than you or have remarkable skills or accomplishments you could never dream of. This occurs more frequently in India, as people still think that the caste system set up by Rishi 'Manu' must be obeyed completely. The idea that we hate Africans for their black color and are impressed by those with white skin has no logical reason. The false idea of an ideal person is completely personal, and placing our own mental model of hopes and needs onto others appears to be self-deceit. By refusing to see that every person is special, we also refuse our own uniqueness. Let us picture a made-up world where everyone acts, speaks, and dresses uniformly, and any difference is seen as a potential offense? Would you consider such people as humans or rather robots? We should value our own uniqueness and that of others, regardless of their background, skin color, customs, faith, origin, or social standing, as all people should have fair rights and chances. People who have no patience and like treating unfairly different social groups should consider how they would feel if the same attitude was shown to them if they were born in a different family or at a different location or time. The whimsical nature of the deep-seated ideas misleading contemporary individuals and making them feel better or more important than others should be removed. If we are absolutely certain that all forms of unfair treatment should be conquered, we should realize that everyone must act, even if efforts seem scattered, as far as discrimination issues are concerned. This means that the usual perspective on life needs to change, as it will allow us to understand and, crucially, value the lives of others, their unique traits, looks, behavior, and decisions they make. To sum up, the problem of unfair treatment is still not settled, and it could take a while for modern society to grasp its importance and the bad effects it has on human progress. However, if everyone tries a bit to learn that everyone is unique and their special traits make this world more vibrant and engaging, then humankind has a strong possibility of growing in the correct and hopeful path. Let us be truthful and offer our best efforts to guarantee a bright and joyful future for later generations!

Exam Tip: For opinion-based questions, structure your answer with an introductory statement, supporting arguments with explanations, and a concluding thought. Use clear and persuasive language to express your viewpoint effectively.