Extremely rare booklet entitled ‘The Historic Speech of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela at the Rivonia Trial,’ published in 1989 by Learn & Teach Publications, Johannesburg, 33 pages, 5.75 x 8, prominently signed on the title page in black felt tip, “N. Mandela.” In fine condition. Accompanied by an attractive presentation case and a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Containing Mandela’s famous statement from the dock at the opening of the defense case in the Rivonia trial on April 20, 1964, this booklet was published for the first time in 1988 while Mandela was still imprisoned. Using powers authorized under a ‘state of emergency’ declaration, the South African government suppressed this publication and on June 20, 1988, police confiscated 14,300 copies of it from Learn & Teach; this was one instance among many in a widespread censorship campaign undertaken that summer. This example of the booklet thus has an interesting notice printed on the title page: “We would just like to remind you that although this booklet was seized under the emergency media regulations when it was first printed last year…you are perfectly entitled to own or possess a copy of this booklet.” Rare even unsigned, this booklet holds what is considered one of the great speeches of the 20th century and represents a key moment in the history of South African democracy.
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