His primary legacy is a multiracial South Africa under the rule of law. Mandela’s governance was characterized by racial reconciliation, especially with white Afrikaners, which he shrewdly promoted through the use of symbols. He insisted on the rule of law. Apartheid may have been a crime against humanity, but there was no extra-legal "revolutionary justice."
Mandela assiduously observed the new constitution that enshrined the strongest protection of individual and minority rights anywhere in the world. Alone among African states, South Africa permits gay marriage, though much of the population remains homophobic.
For most South Africans racial identities remain paramount. At the same time, there are signs that popular attitudes are evolving toward Mandela’s non-racial, democratic values that may provide a bulwark for the future of the rule of law to which Mandela (himself a lawyer) was devoted.
The Racial Divide
In 2012 found that 43.5 percent of South Africans rarely or never speak to someone of another race. Only about half interact with persons of a different race frequently on weekdays, and less than 20 percent regularly socialize with people of other races.
Racism continues to be a reality. Among whites it continues, especially in rural areas. Yet there has been progress. A black middle class mostly based in the public sector has emerged, as have a few high-profile black millionaires. Human rights are protected by the law. Freedom of speech is absolute—for now. These are major democratic achievements, and they owe much to Nelson Mandela’s vision for his beloved country.
What did Nelson Mandela do with his Nobel Prize money?
As president Nelson Mandela donated half of his salary to poor children and when he received the Nobel Peace Prize he gave part of the prize money to help street children. Nelson not only wants all children to feel loved, he also wanted to give them a better future. a chance to develop their talents.
In my opinion Nelson Mandela represents a symbol of democracy in our society that has had such a great impact for the whole world. Finally, Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his outstanding work in peacefully ending the regime in his country.