Oliver Tambo

Date of Birth: October 27, 1917

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: April 24, 1993

Biography

Oliver Reginald Tambo, often referred to as O.R. Tambo, was a prominent South African anti-apartheid politician and revolutionary. Born in Nkantolo, Bizana, in the Eastern Cape province, Tambo was a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC), serving as its President from 1967 to 1991. His leadership was instrumental in mobilizing international opposition to the apartheid regime and in maintaining the ANC’s cohesion during its years in exile. Tambo was a lawyer by profession, having co-founded South Africa’s first black law firm with Nelson Mandela. His dedication to the struggle for freedom, justice, and equality made him one of the most respected figures in South African history.

5 Interesting Facts about Oliver Tambo

1. Oliver Tambo was expelled from Fort Hare University for his involvement in a student-led protest.

2. He co-founded the ANC Youth League in 1944 alongside Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu.

3. Tambo lived in exile for over 30 years, during which he traveled extensively to garner support for the anti-apartheid movement.

4. He played a significant role in the drafting of the Freedom Charter in 1955, which set out the core principles of the anti-apartheid struggle.

5. Tambo suffered a stroke in 1989, which significantly affected his health, but he continued his work for the ANC until his death.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Oliver Tambo

1. “The fight for freedom must go on until it is won; until our country is free and happy and peaceful as part of the community of man, we cannot rest.”

2. “It is our responsibility to break down the barriers of division and create a country where there will be neither whites nor blacks, just South Africans, free and united in diversity.”

3. “We must unite now or perish.”

4. “The children of any nation are its future. A country, a movement, a person that does not value its youth and children does not deserve its future.”

5. “We seek to create a united, democratic and non-racial society.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a revolutionary leader who dedicated his life to the struggle against apartheid and lived in exile, Oliver Tambo did not amass personal wealth. Therefore, his net worth is not applicable in the context of his life and work.