Description
Book Synopsis: In 1985, Nelson Mandela, then in prison for twenty-three years, set about winning over the fiercest proponents of apartheid, from his jailers to the head of South Africa’s military. First he earned his freedom and then he won the presidency in the nation’s first free election in 1994. But he knew that South Africa was still dangerously divided by almost fifty years of apartheid. If he couldn’t unite his country in a visceral, emotional way—and fast—it would collapse into chaos. He would need all the charisma and strategic acumen he had honed during half a century of activism, and he’d need a cause all South Africans could share. Mandela picked one of the more farfetched causes imaginable—the national rugby team, the Springboks, who would host the sport’s World Cup in 1995. Against the giants of the sport, the Springboks’ chances of victory were remote. But their chances of capturing the hearts of most South Africans seemed remoter still, as they had long been the embodiment of white supremacist rule. During apartheid, the all-white Springboks and their fans had belted out racist fight songs, and blacks would come to Springbok matches to cheer for whatever team was playing against them. Yet Mandela believed that the Springboks could embody—and engage—the new South Africa. And the Springboks themselves embraced the scheme. Soon South African TV would carry images of the team singing “Nkosi Sikelele Afrika,” the longtime anthem of black resistance to apartheid. As their surprising string of victories lengthened, their home-field advantage grew exponentially. South Africans of every color and political stripe found themselves falling for the team. When the Springboks took to the field for the championship match against New Zealand’s heavily favored squad, Mandela sat in his presidential box wearing a Springbok jersey while sixty-two-thousand fans, mostly white, chanted “Nelson! Nelson!” Millions more gathered around their TV sets, whether in dusty black townships or leafy white suburbs, to urge their team toward victory. The Springboks won a nail-biter that day, defying the oddsmakers and capping Mandela’s miraculous ten-year-long effort to bring forty-three million South Africans together in an enduring bond. John Carlin, a former South Africa bureau chief for the London Independent, offers a singular portrait of the greatest statesman of our time in action, blending the volatile cocktail of race, sport, and politics to intoxicating effect. He draws on extensive interviews with Mandela, Desmond Tutu, and dozens of other South Africans caught up in Mandela’s momentous campaign, and the Springboks’ unlikely triumph. As he makes stirringly clear, their championship transcended the mere thrill of victory to erase ancient hatreds and make a nation whole.
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Experience the incredible story of Nelson Mandela's mission to unite South Africa in "Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation." In this captivating book, author John Carlin takes you on a journey through Mandela's extraordinary efforts to overcome apartheid and bring his divided country together. Through charisma, strategy, and an unexpected cause - the national rugby team - Mandela was able to capture the hearts of South Africans of all backgrounds. Get inspired by Mandela's tenacious spirit and learn about the power of unity in the face of adversity.
Discover the gripping tale of Nelson Mandela's fight for freedom and the triumph of the Springboks in the World Cup. This remarkable book by John Carlin delves into the fascinating intersection of race, sport, and politics, providing an insight into Mandela's strategic thinking and determination. Carlin's extensive interviews with Mandela and other key figures offer a unique perspective on the events that unfolded during this historic moment. As you read, you'll feel the excitement build alongside the Springboks' victories, and witness the transformation of a nation as ancient animosities gave way to newfound harmony.
Be captivated by the inspiring true story of Nelson Mandela's audacious plan to heal a divided nation through rugby. "Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation" by John Carlin brings to life the tension and drama of South Africa's journey from apartheid to unity. With powerful storytelling and meticulous research, Carlin paints a vivid picture of Mandela's awe-inspiring leadership and the role the Springboks played in his grand vision. Immerse yourself in this compelling narrative and discover the resilience of the human spirit in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the remarkable story of Nelson Mandela's fight for unity in "Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation." John Carlin's masterful storytelling will transport you back to a time of hope, perseverance, and a nation coming together. Witness the transformation of a country as Mandela's audacious plan unfolds, and feel the power of sport to bring about lasting change. Join Mandela on his extraordinary journey and be inspired by his unwavering belief in the power of unity. Grab your copy today and embark on this incredible tale of triumph.
Ready to dive into the inspiring story of Nelson Mandela's fight for unity? Get your copy of "Playing the Enemy: Nelson Mandela and the Game That Made a Nation" now and join Mandela on this incredible journey. Discover how he harnessed the power of sport to bridge divides and heal a nation. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat as you cheer for the Springboks and witness Mandela's unwavering determination. Don't miss out on this unforgettable tale of courage, solidarity, and the extraordinary impact one person can have. Order now and be a part of history.
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