What does Mandela thank the international leaders for?
Mandela thanks the distinguished international leaders for coming to South Africa to take possession with the people of a common victory. He acknowledges their presence at the inauguration as a shared celebration of the end of the extraordinary human disaster of oppression.
Their attendance signifies that the triumph of the new democratic government is not just a national achievement, but a global one. Mandela specifically highlights that this victory is shared by all humanity, as it represents a triumph for justice, for peace, and for human dignity.
Explanation
In his inauguration speech, Mandela addresses the international guests who have gathered from over 140 countries. He expresses gratitude because their presence signifies global solidarity with South Africa. He emphasizes that the end of apartheid and the birth of newborn liberty is not just a victory for South Africans, but a 'common victory' for the universal values of justice, peace, and human dignity.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Locate the specific line in the text where Mandela addresses the international guests.
Step 2: Identify the core reason for his gratitude — their arrival to 'take possession' of a common victory.
Step 3: Extract the specific ideals this victory represents: justice, peace, and human dignity.
Step 4: Combine these points into a concise, 2-mark exam format with proper paragraphing and bold key terms.