Elias Motsoaledi facts for kids

Elias Mathope Motsoaledi OMSG (born July 26, 1924 – died May 9, 1994) was a brave South African anti-apartheid activist. He was one of the key people involved in the famous Rivonia Trial. In July 1963, he was sentenced to life in prison along with other freedom fighters, including Nelson Mandela.

Early Life and Challenges

Elias Motsoaledi was born on July 26, 1924. He grew up in a place called Phokoane, which is now in Limpopo province. He was the third of eight children in his family.

When he was 17, Elias moved to Johannesburg to find work. His first trouble with the law happened when he was arrested. He didn't have his "pass book," which was a special document Black South Africans had to carry during apartheid. He was then forced to work on a road in Pretoria. After he was released, he found a job in a furniture factory.

Fighting for Freedom

Joining the Movement

Elias Motsoaledi joined the South African Communist Party (CPSA) in 1945. A few years later, in 1948, he also became a member of the African National Congress (ANC). He quickly became very active in groups that helped workers, known as trade unions.

In 1949, he joined the Leather Workers' Union. He also became the chairman of a group called the Committee of Non-European Trade Unions (CNETU) in 1953. Later, he helped create the South African Congress of Trade Unions (COSATU).

Key Campaigns and Secret Work

Elias Motsoaledi was a dedicated member of both the South African Communist Party and the African National Congress. He played a big part in many important campaigns. One of these was the Defiance Campaign in 1952. This was a time when people peacefully broke unfair apartheid laws. Because of his activism, he was "banned" for the first time in 1952. This meant his movements and activities were restricted by the government.

In 1960, during a State of Emergency, he was arrested and spent four months in prison. After his release, he went "underground." This meant he worked secretly to avoid being caught by the government. In 1962, he joined Umkhonto we Sizwe, which was the armed wing of the ANC, fighting against apartheid.

Arrest and Long Imprisonment

In July 1963, Elias Motsoaledi was arrested at Liliesleaf Farm. Many other important leaders were arrested with him, including Walter Sisulu, Govan Mbeki, Ahmed Kathrada, Denis Goldberg, Raymond Mhlaba, and Andrew Mlangeni.

They faced a major court case known as the Rivonia Trial. All of these men, along with Nelson Mandela (who was already in prison), were found guilty of trying to overthrow the apartheid government. They were all sentenced to life imprisonment.

Elias Motsoaledi spent 26 long years in prison on Robben Island. He was finally released on October 15, 1989, along with five other leaders. After his release, in July 1991, he was elected to the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ANC.

Family Life

Elias Motsoaledi was married to Caroline Motsoaledi. They had seven children together. He was also the uncle of Aaron Motsoaledi, who later became a politician and minister in South Africa.

Honors and Recognition

On January 8, 1992, Elias Motsoaledi received the Isitwalandwe Medal. This is a very high honor given to people who have made huge sacrifices for freedom and democracy in South Africa. Other famous leaders like Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela also received this medal.

A place in Limpopo province, the Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality, was named after him to honor his contributions.

Death and Lasting Impact

Elias Motsoaledi passed away on May 9, 1994. This was just one day before Nelson Mandela became the first democratically elected President of South Africa.

At Elias Motsoaledi's funeral, Nelson Mandela spoke about him. Mandela said that Elias was a thoughtful person who didn't just agree with ideas easily. He considered things carefully and seriously. Mandela highlighted that this careful thinking was a great strength for their movement to end apartheid.