Gordon Forgey

Nelson Mandella is dead. He died in his home at the age of 95.

Everyone knew he was close to death, but when it finally took him, the world reacted with sadness, respect and love. Millions, from the rich and powerful to the dispossessed, are mourning him.

Mandella was not always revered. He was labeled a terrorist by many governments and had been imprisoned for 27 years in his own country of South Africa. He kept as friends some who did not share his love of liberty.

His long fight to end apartheid gradually earned support around the world and sparked the hopes and dreams of many millions. As...