Nelson Mandela Dies at 95

On the evening of 5 December 2013, Nelson Mandela died at the age of ninety-five at his residence in the Houghton suburb of Johannesburg. The former leader, who had served as South Africa's first president elected under universal suffrage as well as its first Black head of state, succumbed to a protracted respiratory illness while surrounded by his family. South African President Jacob Zuma appeared on national television shortly before midnight to confirm the death, setting off an extensive period of ten days of national mourning.

The announcement triggered an immediate global response, leading to one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in modern history. About ninety heads of state and government traveled to South Africa, alongside royalty, former leaders and other dignitaries. The government declared Sunday, 8 December, a national day of prayer and reflection. Flags on government buildings in South Africa were ordered to remain at half-mast until the state funeral.