Nelson Mandela’s Inauguration – Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing key terms and figures from the lecture notes on Nelson Mandela’s 1994 inauguration.

Tenth May (1994)

The day Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as South Africa’s first democratically elected president.

Inauguration

A formal ceremony to mark the beginning of a leader’s term of office.

Dignitaries

Important or influential people of high rank who attend official events.

Union Buildings

Government complex in Pretoria that served as the venue for Mandela’s inauguration.

Pretoria

The executive capital of South Africa where the Union Buildings are located.

Sandstone amphitheatre

The semi-circular, stone-built open space in front of the Union Buildings used for the ceremony.

White supremacy

The former system of racial domination by whites that governed South Africa before 1994.

Rainbow gathering

A symbolic assembly of people of all races celebrating the new, inclusive South Africa.

Democratic, non-racial government

The first South African administration elected by citizens of every race.

Podium

A raised platform where speakers stand during formal events.

Mr F. W. de Klerk

Former president of apartheid South Africa, sworn in as second deputy president at the ceremony.

Sworn in

To take an official oath of office or allegiance.

Zenani

Nelson Mandela’s daughter who accompanied him on the inauguration day.