Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom: Class 10 Q&A

If you're studying Class 10 English (Language & Literature) First Flight Chapter 2 Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom for your class 10 exam, you'll want to be prepared with important questions and answers. From Mandela's early life to his political activism and imprisonment, these questions will help you ace your test with ease. Get PDF of these important questions and answers and take a printout of it and study from it.

Subject	English Language & Literature
Class	10
Board	CBSE
Chapter Name	Nelson Mandela Long Walk to Freedom
Chapter No.	2
Type	Important Questions and Answers
Session	2024-25
Book Name	First Flight
Literature	Prose

"If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward."

- Martin Luther King Jr.

Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Class 10 Important Questions and Answers

Q. No. 1) Mandela refers to liberty as “newborn” because it

a. was dependent on others for growth and guidance.

b. had recently been attained with lots of struggle.

c. made people experience infant-like excitement.

d. arrived unexpectedly for everyone.

Ans. Option (b)

Q. No. 2) “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.”

(Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom)

i. The guests at the spectacular ceremony are called distinguished because they

a. they have been invited as guests to attend it.

b. they are eminent world leaders witnessing it.

c. they are visiting the country for this purpose.

d. they have resumed diplomatic relations with the country.

Ans. Option (b)

ii. It is a victory for ‘human dignity’. Pick the option that lists the correct answer for what ‘human dignity’ would include.

a. i) equality ii) liberty iii) indecency

b. i) liberty ii) indecency iii) self-respect

c. i) immorality ii) self-respect iii) equality

d. i) equality ii) liberty iii) self-respect

Ans. Option (d)

iii. Why does the speaker say that it is a ‘rare privilege’?

He says this as they have

a. been deprived of this honor.

b. seldom been given this honor.

c. experienced it for the first time.

d. been chosen over other countries, for this honor.

Ans. Option (c)

iv. How do you think the speaker feels? Choose the option that best fits his state of mind.

a. i) emotional ii) elated iii) unmindful

b. i) elated ii) unmindful iii) overwhelmed

c. i) overwhelmed ii) elated iii) honored

d. i) elated ii) honored iii) unmindful

Ans. Option (c)

v. Pick the option that showcases the usage of ‘host’ as in the extract.

a. He was praised for his hospitality as the host of the party.

b. She was able to host the event without any hindrance.

c. She met the host and apologized for her friend’s misbehavior.

d. He is the best host that one can ever come across.

Ans. Option (b)

Q. No. 3) But the decades of oppression and brutality had another unintended effect, and that was that it produced the Oliver Tambos, the Walter Sisulus, the Chief Luthulis, the Yusuf Dadoos, the Bram Fischers, the Robert Sobukwes of our times — men of such extraordinary courage, wisdom, and generosity that their like may never be known again. Perhaps it requires such depths of oppression to create such heights of character. 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, finer and truer than the purest diamonds. It is from these comrades in the struggle that I learned the meaning of courage. Time and again, I have seen men and women risk and give their lives for an idea.

(Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom)

i. What was the unintended effect of the long oppression? Choose the correct option.

a. It made the people indifferent to injustice.

b. It made the people reject oppression.

c. It influenced a generation to fight against injustice.

d. It made people accept their oppression.

Ans. Option (c)

ii. Men of such extraordinary courage refers to the people who………………..

a. liberated and abolished the Apartheid system.

b. used their resources to spread awareness.

c. fought for their country’s freedom.

d. demonstrated utmost strength to oppose the system.

Ans. Option (d)

iii. Nelson Mandela compares _____ to diamonds.

a. his countrymen

b. patriots

c. wise men

d. the oppressed

Ans. Option (a)

iv. When Nelson Mandela says, “I have seen men and women risk and give their lives for an idea.”, he means that they are _____.

a. stubborn.

b. committed.

c. intelligent.

d. proud.

Ans. Option (b)

v. Select the suitable word from the extract to complete the following:

depths : heights : : compassion : _____.

a. wisdom

b. oppression

c. struggle

d. courage

Ans. Option (b)

Q. No. 4) “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 honorable freedoms...”

i. The title that best suits this extract is

a. Freedom for everything

b. Knowledge about Freedom

c. Significance of Freedom

d. Realisation of Freedom

Ans. Option (c)

ii. Why do you think the speaker mentions some freedoms as ‘transitory’?

a. The freedoms are momentary and keep changing with time.

b. The definition of freedom is constant but perspectives differ.

c. Freedom means different things to different people.

d. Freedom is not that important after a certain age.

Ans. Option (a)

iii. Choose the option that best fits the usage of the word ‘illusion’ as used in the extract.

a. He was never able to get past the illusion.

b. The illusion I experienced was quite intriguing.

c. A large mirror in the room creates an illusion.

d. I was living under the illusion that this is possible.

Ans. Option (d)

iv. The speaker says, 'at first as a student I wanted freedom only for myself.’ Why do you think he only thought about himself?

a. He didn’t want to think about the freedom denied to others.

b. He was being selfish and was only bothered about himself.

c. He didn’t think that freedom denied to him was important for others.

d. He was too young to realize that freedom was denied to others as well.

Ans. Option (d)

v. A part of the extract has been paraphrased. Choose the option that includes the most appropriate solution to the blanks in the given paraphrase of the extract.

The speaker’s belief about freedom, since childhood proved false. It was not until the speaker grew up to be a young man when it (i) __________________ on him that he was (ii) ________________ of freedom. Then he began (iii) __________________ it.

a. i) desired ii) dawned iii) depriving

b. i) dawned ii) deprived iii) desiring

c. i) dawned ii) arrived iii) desiring

d. i) arrived ii) deprived iii) dawned

Ans. Option (b)

Q. No. 5) Which of these lines from 'A Long Walk to Freedom' hints at the end of apartheid in South Africa?

a. I was not born with a hunger to be free. I was born free — free in every way that I could know.

b. ...I yearned for the basic and honorable freedoms of achieving my potential, of earning my keep,...

c. Although that day neither group knew the lyrics of the anthem they once despised, they would soon know the words by heart.

d. ...the white-skinned peoples of South Africa patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination against the dark-skinned peoples...

Ans. Option (c)

Q. No. 6) Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone?

Ans. The ceremonies took place in the sandstone amphitheater formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Some of the public buildings made of sandstone in India are:

• Red Fort, Delhi
• Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
• Fatehpur Sikri, Agra
• Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Q. No. 7) Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of?

Ans. A large number of international leaders attended Nelson Mandela's inauguration as the first black President of South Africa because it was a historic moment not only for South Africa but also for the world. It signified the triumph of the anti-apartheid movement and the victory of democracy over oppression and racism.

Mandela's struggle for freedom and equality had become a global symbol of hope and inspiration. The presence of so many international leaders at his inauguration demonstrated the support and solidarity of the international community for Mandela's cause and the new South Africa.

The inauguration was a significant moment in world history, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era of democracy in South Africa. It was a triumph not only for Mandela and his supporters but for all those who had fought for justice and equality around the world.

Q. No. 8) Can you say how 10 May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa?

Ans. May 10th is considered an 'autumn day' in South Africa because the country is located in the Southern Hemisphere where the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. While countries in the Northern Hemisphere experience spring in May, South Africa experiences autumn during the same time.

Q. No. 9) 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?

Ans. In his inauguration speech, Nelson Mandela mentions "an extraordinary human disaster" to refer to the apartheid system in South Africa, which had resulted in decades of racial oppression, discrimination, and violence. The system had caused immense suffering, pain, and injustice to millions of people, particularly black South Africans.

Towards the end of his speech, Mandela refers to a "glorious human achievement" to celebrate the end of apartheid and the triumph of democracy in South Africa. He speaks of the power of unity, forgiveness, and reconciliation in bringing about a new era of hope, peace, and prosperity in the country.

The "glorious human achievement" he refers to is the successful transition from apartheid to democracy, the creation of a new constitution, and the establishment of a government that represents all South Africans, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or religion.

Q. No. 10) What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?

Ans. In his inauguration speech, Nelson Mandela sets out several ideals for the future of South Africa. These ideals are based on the principles of democracy, equality, justice, and reconciliation. Some of the key ideals he mentions are:

1. Unity: Mandela emphasizes the need for all South Africans to come together and work towards a common goal of building a prosperous and democratic society. He calls for an end to divisions based on race, ethnicity, or religion.
2. Equality: Mandela stresses the importance of equality for all South Africans, regardless of their race, gender, or social status. He recognizes that apartheid had denied black South Africans their rights and freedoms and promises to create a society where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
3. Justice: Mandela stresses the need for justice for all South Africans, particularly those who had suffered under apartheid. He calls for the establishment of a legal system that is fair and impartial and promises to promote human rights and dignity.
4. Reconciliation: Mandela emphasizes the need for reconciliation and forgiveness to heal the wounds of the past. He calls on South Africans to embrace each other as fellow citizens and to work towards building a future where all can live together in peace and harmony.

Q. No. 11) Why were two national anthems sung?

Ans. Two national anthems were sung during Nelson Mandela's inauguration as the first black President of South Africa because it was a symbolic gesture to signify the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era of democracy.

By singing both national anthems at Mandela's inauguration, it was meant to symbolize the unity and reconciliation of all South Africans, regardless of their race or background. It was a powerful gesture of inclusion and recognition of the diverse cultures and traditions that make up the country.

Q. No. 12) 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?

Ans. Nelson Mandela describes the systems of government in South Africa in the first and final decades of the twentieth century as follows:

(i) In the first decade of the twentieth century, South Africa was under the colonial rule of the British Empire, which had established a system of white minority rule. The white minority government implemented policies that discriminated against the black majority population. This system of government was based on racial segregation and discrimination, known as apartheid.

(ii) In the final decade of the twentieth century, South Africa had undergone a significant transformation, from a racially segregated and oppressive system of government to a democratic and inclusive one. In 1994, after years of struggle and negotiations, the country held its first democratic elections, and Nelson Mandela was elected as the first black President of South Africa. The new government was based on the principles of democracy, equality, justice, and reconciliation, and aimed to promote the well-being and dignity of all South Africans, regardless of their race or ethnicity.

Q. No. 13) What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him?

Ans. When Nelson Mandela says he is "simply the sum of all those African patriots" who had gone before him, he means that his life and achievements are the results of the struggles and sacrifices made by generations of African leaders and activists who fought against colonialism, racism, and oppression.

Mandela recognizes that his success and his position as the first black President of South Africa were not achieved solely by his own efforts, but were the culmination of a long and difficult struggle that involved many people before him. He acknowledges the contributions of countless African patriots, including those who fought against colonialism and apartheid, those who endured imprisonment, torture, and persecution, and those who lost their lives in the struggle for freedom and justice.

Q. No. 14) Mandela says that his country’s greatest wealth is its people and not the purest diamonds. Justify his statement.

Ans. Nelson Mandela's statement that his country's greatest wealth is its people and not the purest diamonds highlights the importance of human capital and the potential of a diverse and talented population.

Diamonds and other natural resources are certainly valuable, but they are finite and do not possess the capacity for growth and innovation that human beings do. On the other hand, investing in education, health care, and other forms of human development can have far-reaching benefits, not just for individuals, but for the entire society.

By recognizing the value of human capital, Mandela is highlighting the importance of investing in people and creating an environment that nurtures their talents and potential. This can lead to greater innovation, productivity, and economic growth, as well as a more equitable and just society.

Q. No. 15) Who, according to Nelson Mandela, is a courageous man?

Ans.

• A courageous man is not someone who doesn’t experience fear.
• He is someone who doesn’t give in to it.
• He is one who wins over fear.

Q. No. 16) Mandela feels that courage is triumph over fear. How would you define courage in this context?

Ans. In the context of Nelson Mandela's view that courage is triumph over fear, courage can be defined as the ability to confront and overcome fear, uncertainty, and adversity in pursuit of a greater goal.

For Mandela, courage was not the absence of fear, but rather the willingness to face and overcome fear in the pursuit of justice and freedom. Courage involves a willingness to confront and challenge oppressive systems and structures, even when doing so may result in personal harm or sacrifice.

Q. No. 17) Explain the given statement with reference to Nelson Mandela's dreams.

“A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”

Ans. The statement "A winner is a dreamer who never gives up" refers to the idea that those who achieve great things are often driven by a powerful vision or dream and that they are willing to persevere in the face of obstacles and setbacks in order to make that dream a reality. This is a sentiment that is closely aligned with Nelson Mandela's life and work.

Mandela was a visionary leader who dreamed of a South Africa that was free, democratic, and equitable. Despite facing immense challenges, including imprisonment and persecution, he never gave up on his dream. Instead, he continued to fight for what he believed in, even when it seemed impossible.

Q. No. 18) Nelson Mandela speaks of ‘Twin Obligations’. Elucidate.

Ans. One towards society, one towards the family.

Q. No. 19) Based on your reading of the lesson, what can you infer about Mandela as a father and as a leader?

Ans. Based on the reading of the lesson, it can be inferred that Mandela was a devoted father and a visionary leader who was deeply committed to his family and to the struggle for justice and equality.

As a father, Mandela was affectionate and loving towards his children, even as he spent long periods of time away from them due to his political activities. As a leader, Mandela was a unifying force who was able to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in the fight against apartheid. He was a man of great conviction and principle, who was willing to sacrifice his own freedom for the greater good of his people.

Q. No. 20) If you were in Mandela’s position, would you have given preference to your family or your country? Why?

Ans. Being a leader of a country is a very challenging role, which requires balancing different priorities and responsibilities. It is difficult to say whether one should prioritize their family or their country, as both are important in their own way.

In Mandela's case, he was faced with a difficult choice between his family and his country. He was committed to fighting against apartheid and working towards a more just and equitable society, but this often meant sacrificing time with his family and even risking his own safety.

If I were in Mandela's position, I would likely prioritize the greater good of the country over the needs of my own family. This is because I would feel a deep sense of responsibility towards my fellow citizens, and would believe that the work I was doing was more important than any personal considerations.

Q. No. 21) 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 honorable freedoms”?

Or,

How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

Ans. As a boy, Mandela saw freedom as the ability to move about without fear of being harassed or detained by the police. He grew up in a society where black people were routinely subjected to violence and discrimination, and being able to move about freely was a rare and precious thing.

As a student, Mandela saw freedom in broader terms, as the ability to pursue his education and achieve his dreams without hindrance. He saw education as a pathway to greater freedom, both for himself and for his community.

In contrast, for Mandela, true freedom was not simply a matter of being able to move about or pursue one's education but was instead a fundamental right that should be enjoyed by all people, regardless of their race, religion, or social status. He saw the struggle for freedom as a long and difficult journey, but one that was ultimately worthwhile, as it would lead to a more just and equitable society for all.

Q. No. 22) 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?

Ans. Yes, I would agree that the "depths of oppression" can create "heights of character." Nelson Mandela's life story is a powerful example of this. Mandela endured decades of imprisonment, harassment, and discrimination at the hands of the apartheid government in South Africa. Despite this, he remained committed to his principles of justice, equality, and freedom for all people.

Mandela's experiences in prison were particularly transformative, as he was forced to confront his own fears and weaknesses and find the inner strength to continue fighting for what he believed in. Through his suffering, he developed a deep sense of empathy and compassion for others and became a powerful advocate for reconciliation and forgiveness.

There are many other examples throughout history of individuals who have faced great oppression and emerged with remarkable strength of character. For example, Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's independence movement, endured years of imprisonment and persecution at the hands of the British colonial authorities. Through his suffering, he developed a deep commitment to nonviolent resistance and social justice and inspired millions of people around the world to stand up for their rights and fight against oppression.

Q. No. 23) Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/Why not?

Ans. Mandela suggests that the oppressor is not truly free. Mandela argues that the oppressor's freedom is limited by their own fear and hatred. By seeing others as inferior and unworthy of equality, the oppressor is denying themselves the chance to live in a society that is truly free and open.

Q. No. 24) Create a questionnaire of the two most important questions that you would have liked to ask Nelson Mandela during an interview. Give your reasons for choosing those questions.

Ans. Questionnaire for Nelson Mandela:

1. What was the most difficult decision you had to make during your struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa, and how did you overcome the challenges associated with that decision?

I chose this question because I believe it would provide valuable insights into Mandela's leadership style and decision-making process. By understanding how he approached these challenges, we can gain a better understanding of his leadership philosophy and how he was able to achieve such remarkable success.

2. How do you see the future of South Africa, and what steps do you believe are necessary to ensure continued progress and development in the country?

I chose this question because I believe it would be valuable to hear Mandela's perspective on the future of South Africa, particularly given his role in shaping the country's transition to democracy.

Q. No. 25) You recently read a blog by your teen friend, on ‘Freedom-My Perception’. You feel that your perception of freedom has seen a transformation after having read The Long Walk to Freedom.

Complete the dialogue in 120 words, with your friend, explaining your new understanding of freedom. You may begin like this:

Friend: I think the freedom to watch T.V. for extended hours or choose the kind of programs I’d like to view is important.

You: …………………………………

Friend: Hmmm. I still feel that the restrictions are not required. I want my freedom. I’m human too, am I not?

You: ………………………………….

Ans. Friend: I think the freedom to watch T.V. for extended hours or choose the kind of programs I’d like to view is important.

You: I used to think that too, but after reading The Long Walk to Freedom, my perception of freedom has changed. I now believe that freedom is not just about being able to do what we want, but also about taking responsibility for our actions and understanding the impact they have on others.

Friend: What do you mean?

You: Well, for example, Nelson Mandela fought for the freedom of his people from apartheid in South Africa. But he didn't just fight for their freedom to do whatever they wanted. He fought for their freedom to live with dignity and respect, and to be treated equally.

Friend: Hmmm. I still feel that the restrictions are not required. I want my freedom. I’m human too, am I not?

You: Of course, you are. But with freedom comes responsibility. We need to be responsible for our actions and understand that they can impact others around us. Sometimes, restrictions are put in place for our own safety or for the greater good of society. As long as we are mindful of our actions and their impact on others, we can still enjoy our freedom while also respecting the freedom of others.

Q. No. 26) After having read the lesson on the oppression that communities faced in South Africa, you were deeply hurt. You could also relate to the struggles and hardships of millions of Indians who fought against the oppressive British rule.

Write a diary entry expressing your feelings about the oppression faced by people in their homeland.

You may begin like this:

24 August 20XX, Monday 9:00 pm

My heart is filled with sadness as I think of the oppressed who had to tolerate the inhuman attitude of the oppressors in their own land. …………………………

Ans. 24 August 20XX, Monday 9:00 pm
My heart is filled with sadness as I think of the oppressed who had to tolerate the inhuman attitude of the oppressors in their own land. Reading about the struggles and hardships that the South African people had to endure under apartheid made me deeply hurt and affected me on a personal level. I couldn't help but think of the countless Indians who faced a similar plight during the oppressive British rule.

It's heartbreaking to imagine how people were denied even basic human rights and had to fight just for their right to live with dignity. The stories of discrimination, violence, and segregation are disturbing and make me wonder how can one human be so cruel to another.

But, at the same time, the stories of resilience, courage, and determination of these people have left an indelible impression on my mind. Nelson Mandela's unwavering spirit and his never-ending struggle for the freedom of his people are truly inspiring.

It makes me think that oppression is not just a thing of the past. Even today, people around the world are struggling for their rights and freedom. We need to be aware of these issues and do our part to support them in their fight against oppression. As Mandela said, "To be free is not merely to cast off one's chains but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others."

I hope that one day, all people will be able to live freely and with dignity in their own land, without the fear of oppression and discrimination.

Q. No. 27) You have been chosen to address a student gathering from the neighborhood schools, to speak on the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination. Prepare the speech draft in not more than 120 words, with reference to the commonality of themes in Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom and The Trees by Adrienne Rich.

You may begin this way:

Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination.

You may end this way:

To conclude, I’d like to say that ...

Thank you

Ans. Good morning, everyone. Today, I'd like to discuss two pieces of literature that offer a powerful insight into the resilience of the human spirit required to transcend discrimination. Both works share some common themes.

(Theme 1: Transcending Discrimination)

Both Mandela's excerpt and Rich's poem address the issue of discrimination. Mandela speaks of how his own experiences of discrimination made him more determined to fight against it. He emphasizes the need to move beyond the divides created by race, gender, and class. Similarly, Rich's poem acknowledges the discrimination faced by trees, which are often overlooked and undervalued. She argues that these trees deserve to be recognized and appreciated, just as all living beings should be. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - the emergence of women against discrimination. Rich compares the growth of trees to the growth of women who were once suppressed and marginalized by society. Just as trees grow from the earth and reach for the sky, women too are rooted in their past but strive towards a better future, breaking free from the chains of oppression and discrimination.]

 (Theme 2: The Efforts Involved in Achieving Equality)

 Both pieces of literature also highlight the hard work and sacrifices required to achieve equality. Mandela describes his long and difficult journey toward freedom, including his time spent in prison. He emphasizes that true freedom is not just about breaking physical chains but also breaking mental ones. Rich's poem speaks of the efforts required to protect trees and nature, highlighting the importance of activism and advocacy. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - Despite being cut down and uprooted by the patriarchy, women continue to grow and flourish, resisting oppression and striving towards equality. The trees symbolize the tenacity and determination of women to rise above their circumstances and claim their rightful place in society.]

(Theme 3: Resilience of the Human Spirit)

Despite the challenges faced, both Mandela's excerpt and Rich's poem showcase the resilience of the human spirit. Mandela's perseverance and unwavering determination to fight against discrimination, even in the face of great adversity, inspire us to do the same. Rich's poem also speaks to the resilience of nature, which continues to thrive even in the face of human neglect and disregard. [The metaphorical perspective for The Trees - The poem celebrates the strength and tenacity of women and highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Through the symbol of the trees, Rich suggests that Content 3 Expression 2 Accuracy 1 13 of 14 just as nature can regenerate and thrive, so too can women emerge stronger and more resilient from discrimination and oppression.]

Conclusion:

To conclude, I’d like to say that the common themes of transcending discrimination and the efforts involved in achieving equality are prevalent in both these pieces of literature and remind us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for what we believe in, even when faced with obstacles. By acknowledging and valuing all forms of life and working towards a more just and equal world, we can continue to build a better future for ourselves and for future generations.

Thank you.

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