Mandela paper assignment

Choose and research one of the following questions:

1. Nelson Mandela went to prison when he was in his forties and was not released for over 27 years. Where did Mandela find the strength to survive almost three decades in one of the world’s harshest prisons? What strategies did he employ to do so? What impact did his time in prison leave on him and on the anti-apartheid struggle?

2. Trace Mr. Mandela’s beliefs regarding non-violent protest throughout his life. Analyze the factors that influenced and changed his views and strategies – why did they change? How might different strategies have changed the effectiveness of the anti-apartheid movement, for good or for bad? Was violent protest necessary?

3. What is Nelson Mandela’s legacy? Don’t just write a laundry list of many things – make an argument with an overarching theme. You might be interested to research the Truth & Reconciliation Commission or Mandela’s post-presidency – what he’s been doing since he stepped down.

I’m happy to talk with you and offer guidance on these questions.

You may suggest another topic and write on it ONLY if I approve your topic. I’ll be available during E2 and after school today to discuss. If you email me over the weekend, I may not be able to respond, so do not begin writing on your own topic unless you’ve received approval from me.

Summary of requirements:

  • A draft or significant outline is due on Monday – write over the weekend.
  • The paper is due on Wednesday.
  • Late papers lose a letter grade a day. Turn your paper in on time.
  • Make a formal, structured, and concise argument.
  • Length requirement: at least 4 pages.
  • You may double-space.
  • Use 12-pt Times New Roman as your font.
  • Use the standard Word margins (left & right: 1-inch, top & bottom: 1.25-inch).
  • Proofread your paper for errors.

posted by Duncan Brook - February 8, 2008