Charlie Rose Season 7 Episode 14 Charlie Rose -Nelson Mandela's legacy on his 90th birthday (July 18, 2008)

On July 18, 2008, Charlie Rose aired a special episode dedicated to the legacy of Nelson Mandela on his 90th birthday. Mandela, the former president of South Africa and anti-apartheid revolutionary, was one of the world's most beloved and respected leaders. In this episode, Rose speaks with a variety of guests, including Mandela's former wife Winnie Mandela, his friend Ahmed Kathrada, and his biographer Richard Stengel, about the impact of Mandela's life and work.

The episode opens with Rose reflecting on Mandela's extraordinary life and the ways in which he changed the world. Rose notes that Mandela spent 27 years in prison and yet emerged as a symbol of forgiveness and reconciliation, rather than vengeance. He also highlights Mandela's commitment to democracy, equality, and human rights, and the ways in which he inspired millions of people around the globe.

Rose then transitions to his conversation with Winnie Mandela, who discusses the early years of her marriage to Nelson and the toll that his political activism took on their family. She talks about the pain of being separated from him for so many years, and the sacrifices that both of them made in the service of their cause. Winnie also reflects on their divorce and the difficult years that followed, as she faced oppression and persecution in her own right.

In his next segment, Rose speaks with Ahmed Kathrada, a close friend and colleague of Mandela's who was imprisoned with him on Robben Island. Kathrada shares his memories of Mandela in prison, including his remarkable resilience, his sense of humor, and his ability to inspire his fellow inmates. Kathrada also reflects on the significance of Mandela's release from prison and his eventual election as president of South Africa.

In his final segment, Rose speaks with Richard Stengel, the author of Mandela's autobiography Long Walk to Freedom. Stengel talks about the challenges of working on the book with Mandela, including the difficulty of capturing his voice and his reluctance to delve too deeply into some of the more painful aspects of his life. Stengel also reflects on the enduring legacy of Mandela's leadership and what we can all learn from his example.

Throughout the episode, Rose interweaves archival footage of Mandela and others, as well as photographs and other visual elements that help to bring his story to life. He also includes commentary from other guests, including scholars and activists who have been inspired by Mandela's life and work.

Overall, this episode of Charlie Rose offers a moving and insightful tribute to Nelson Mandela and his remarkable legacy. It reminds us of the power of forgiveness, the importance of democracy and human rights, and the impact that one person can have on the world.