Long Walk to Freedom Long Answer Type Question

This page offers Long Walk to Freedom long answer type question for Class 10 from the book First Flight.
We’ve put together a bunch of long answer type question based on assumption, creativity, extrapolation and critical thinking. These types of questions are introduced after 2024 in CBSE Board. So, practice to understand Long Walk to Freedom long answer type question

1. Nelson Mandela in his inaugural speech used these two words ‘an extraordinary human disaster’ and so ‘glorious a human achievement’. What did he mean by that?
Ans. The extraordinary disaster was the rule of Apartheid in South Africa. This disaster of racial discrimination brought oppression, deprivation, cruelty and suffering for the black people of South Africa. Blacks were not allowed to visit the places reserved for the whites. They led a life of humiliation.
At last on 10 May, 1994, after more than three centuries of white rule, Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress Party won the elections. Nelson Mandela became the first black President of South Africa. The coming into power of non-racial government was a glorious human achievement.

2. Describe how Mandela equates the concept of freedom with the natural resources of South Africa. How does this comparison enhance the understanding of freedom’s true value?

Answer- In “Long Walk to Freedom,” Mandela beautifully links freedom with the beauty of South Africa’s nature. He talks about how the country’s different landscapes show the rich spirit of its people. He suggests that just like these natural wonders, freedom is something very special and natural that everyone should have.
Mandela makes us see that freedom is more than just politics or social rules. He says it’s a basic part of being human, as important as the air and water around us. This idea helps us really understand how important freedom is. It’s like something pure and natural that we should all care for and love, much like how we admire the beauty of nature. This makes the wish for freedom feel real and close to our hearts, something we know and love.

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3. Imagine you are Nelson Mandela reflecting on your journey at the moment of freedom. What thoughts and emotions would you experience, and how would they shape your vision for South Africa’s future?
Answer- As Mandela at the moment of freedom, I would feel a profound mix of emotions. I’d be super happy and relieved because we finally won the fight for freedom. But I’d also feel a big sense of duty about what comes next.
Thinking about all the tough times and sacrifices, made by me and others, would make me serious about what we need to do now. I’d dream of a South Africa where everyone gets along and makes up, even though it’s going to be hard to fix all the past problems. I’d be hopeful but also know it’s going to take a lot of work to make things really better.
Freedom isn’t just about getting rid of the bad stuff; it’s about building a place where everyone can do well. This moment is just the start. It’s our chance to make a country that’s fair and just, where everyone can be their best.

4. Analyze the role of unity and solidarity among the oppressed in “Long Walk to Freedom.” How does Mandela’s story illustrate the strength found in unity?
Answer- In “Long Walk to Freedom,” the role of unity and solidarity among the oppressed is a key. Mandela’s story teaches us how working together with the same goal can really make a difference, even when things seem too tough.
He showed that when people who are treated unfairly join hands, they become much stronger and can stand up against big unfair systems. This togetherness isn’t just about showing up for protests; it’s about feeling the same pain and wanting the same things. Mandela was great at bringing people together like this.
He showed us that being united isn’t just about looking strong, but it’s a real way to break down unfair systems. His story tells us that one person can start change, but it takes a whole group of people working together to keep it going and really make a difference.

5. Why does Mandela say that freedom is indivisible? How are the oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity
Ans. Nelson Mandela believes that freedom is indivisible. His hunger for his own freedom became the greater hunger for the freedom of his people. He couldn’t live his life with dignity and self-respect if his own people were bound in chains.
The chains on any one of his people were the chains on all of them. The chains on all of his people were the chains on him. Mandela realised that the oppressor must be liberated as surely as the oppressed.
A man who takes away another’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred, prejudice and narrow mindedness. He is not truly free if he is taking away someone else’s freedom. Surely, he is not free when his freedom is taken away from him. Thus the oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.

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6. The inauguration ceremony symbolised a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity against the most hated apartheid regime based on racial discrimination. Comment.
Ans. The inauguration ceremony of the installation of a democratically elected government in South Africa was of great historical importance. After the Boer war, the white ‘peoples’, patched up their differences. They imposed the domination of the whites through the apartheid based on racial discrimination.
The inauguration ceremony attracted worldwide recognition. International leaders and dignitaries from more than 140 countries assembled at the amphitheatre in the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The whole world hailed it as a common victory for justice, for peace, for human dignity.
The grand struggle of the black patriots against the most hated regime of apartheid succeeded. There was a spectacular display of jets and the salute by the bedecked generals with ribbons to President Mandela. It showed the military’s loyalty to democracy. The playing of the two national anthems symbolised a new regime based on equality irrespective of race and colour.

7. Contrast the life of Nelson Mandela before and after his imprisonment. How did his experiences and perspectives change over time?
Answer- Before going to jail, Nelson Mandela was a brave but sometimes scared man who loved his family. He stood up for what he believed in with pride. But after being in jail, he changed a lot. He became even braver and started leading the fight against unfair rules in South Africa with more energy.
He learned to include everyone in his plans for change. When he got out of jail, Mandela focused on bringing people together instead of fighting. He wanted everyone to live peacefully and have a say in the country’s future.
He showed the world how important it is to forgive and work together. Mandela’s time in jail really changed how he thought about solving problems and bringing freedom and fairness to everyone.

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8. Explore how Mandela’s struggle and eventual victory impacted movements for freedom and equality worldwide. Provide examples from other countries or historical events.
Answer- Nelson Mandela’s fight to end A System in South Africa really inspired people all over the world who wanted freedom and fairness. His story gave hope to many who were facing tough times.
For example, in the United States, the people fighting for equal rights were encouraged by Mandela’s way of peacefully standing up for what’s right and trying to fix broken relationships. His way of leading also helped other countries find peaceful ways to become more democratic and fair, especially places that were ruled by harsh leaders.
Mandela showed everyone that staying true to your cause and protesting without violence can really change things for the better, even when it seems really hard. This has motivated many people in different parts of the world to keep working towards making their communities more just and free.

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9. If Mandela were to give a speech to the youth today, what advice would he offer about fighting for justice and equality? Use references from the text to support your answer.
Answer- If Mandela were to give a speech to the young people today, he’d likely focus on how important education is for changing both ourselves and the world around us. He’d tell them to keep going, even when fighting for what’s right seems really hard, just like he did for many years against unfair laws.
Mandela would also talk a lot about the power of saying sorry and making peace, because that’s how he helped heal his own country when it was split apart. He’d suggest that young folks should try to solve problems by talking and listening to each other, respecting different views.
Mandela would highlight that working together is key and that young people have a big role in making the world a better, more fair place. His message would mix smart advice with encouragement, pushing the youth to take up the challenge of making positive changes with a sense of duty and hope.

10. Discuss the concept of sacrifice in Mandela’s journey. How did his personal sacrifices contribute to the greater good of his country?
Answer- Mandela’s life story is all about the big sacrifices he made for his people’s freedom. He gave up a lot when he decided to fight against unfair laws in South Africa, even leaving behind his personal responsibilities.
His work to make things right led to him being arrested many times, which was really hard on his family life. The biggest thing he gave up was spending a long time of his life in jail, where he faced really tough times.
But his struggle wasn’t just his own; it became a powerful symbol for the bigger fight against unfairness, and it made people from all over the world want to help. Mandela’s willingness to give up his comforts inspired many others to join in and fight too.
Even after he got out of jail, he kept working hard to fix his country, putting everyone else’s needs before his own. His story shows us how one person’s sacrifices can really push a movement forward and bring about big changes.

11. Create a dialogue between Mandela and a young freedom fighter during the apartheid era. What wisdom and views would Mandela impart, and how would the young fighter respond?
Answer- Young Fighter: “Mr. Mandela, how do we keep fighting when the odds are against us?”
Mandela: “Persistence is key. Remember, freedom is not just an act, but a way of life. We must be the embodiment of the freedom we seek.”
Young Fighter: “But how do we deal with the anger and desire for revenge?”
Mandela: “Anger is natural, but we must channel it constructively. Our struggle is for justice, not revenge. We must act in a way that respects our dignity and upholds our cause.”
Young Fighter: “It’s hard to stay hopeful.”
Mandela: “Hope is powerful. It’s what keeps us going in the darkest times. Never lose sight of our ultimate goal – a free and fair society for all.”
This dialogue presents Mandela’s wisdom on persistence, dignified struggle, and the power of hope, which he might impart to a young fighter.

12. If Mandela hadn’t joined the anti-apartheid movement, how might South Africa’s history have differed?
Answer- Without Mandela’s involvement in the anti-apartheid movement, South Africa’s history could have unfolded very differently. Mandela’s leadership had a special mix of toughness, smart planning, and a strong belief in fairness and equality. He knew how to bring different people together, using both peaceful protests and stronger actions when needed, to stand up against unfair laws.
If Mandela hadn’t been there, the fight against these laws might have been weaker and not as united. This could have made the struggle longer, more violent, and with less help from other countries.
Also, Mandela had a clear idea of a South Africa where everyone is included and treated fairly, which helped the country change smoothly after the unfair laws were gone. Without him, this change could have been much messier and made it harder to build a stable, fair government. His focus on making peace and building the nation was key to making sure South Africa moved forward peacefully after those tough times.

13. Imagine Mandela advising leaders of a similarly oppressed country. What insights from his experience would he share?
Answer- If Mandela were giving advice to leaders facing similar challenges, he’d probably talk about the importance of being strong but also knowing when to talk things out. He’d highlight how crucial it is for everyone to stick together, showing that unity is a strong weapon against unfair treatment.
Mandela would suggest using peaceful protests and, if needed, firmer actions, but always with the aim of achieving peace and fairness. He’d share how helpful support from other countries can be and give tips on how to get and use this support well. He’d also talk about staying honest and true to what you believe in, even when things get really tough.
Lastly, Mandela would remind them to think about how to heal and build the nation after the conflict, making sure peace lasts and the country stays strong and united.

14. How would the anti-apartheid movement’s strategies and public perception have changed if Mandela hadn’t maintained his leadership from prison?
Answer- Without Mandela leading from behind bars, the fight against unfair laws could have looked very different. Mandela wasn’t just a leader; he was a symbol of strong will and doing the right thing. Even when he was in jail, he managed to guide and keep everyone together. Without him, the movement might have broken into smaller groups, each with its own ideas and plans.
This could have made the whole effort weaker and its message less clear, making it tough to keep support from both inside and outside the country. There might have been more push towards using violence, changing how people saw the movement and maybe losing some of the sympathy and backing from around the world. Mandela’s way of leading with strength but also with principles was key to keeping the movement strong and respected.

15. What would happen around the world politically and economically if South Africa had ended apartheid with violence?
Answer- If South Africa had ended apartheid with violence, it could have caused big problems around the world. Other countries might have gotten involved or changed how they deal with South Africa.
Money-wise, people from other countries might have been scared to invest or trade with South Africa, making its money problems worse. This could have also affected the money situation in nearby countries.
People around the world admire South Africa for changing peacefully; if it had been violent, this good image would have been damaged. South Africa’s story helps show others how to solve big problems without fighting; a violent change would have changed this story a lot.

16. Reflect on the kind of future Mandela envisioned for South Africa 20 years after his presidency.
Answer- Twenty years after he was president, Mandela still had big hopes for South Africa. He wanted it to be a place where everyone got along, no longer split by old unfair rules. He dreamed that in South Africa, being free and equal would be real for everyone, not just ideas.
He wished for a place where it didn’t matter what color you were or how much money you had; everyone would have the same chance to do well. Mandela also wanted South Africa to be known around the world as a country that solved problems without fighting and where people lived together happily.
He thought learning was important for making this happen, helping young people make sure South Africa stayed fair and free. Mandela’s dream was for a South Africa full of different people who all felt part of one big community, looking out for each other and making sure everyone was treated right.

17. Reflect on the concept of forgiveness in the context of Mandela’s journey. How does forgiving one’s oppressors contribute to personal and societal healing?
Answer- Mandela’s story teaches us a lot about forgiving. He decided to forgive those who treated him unfairly, which was a really big and kind thing to do. He knew that staying angry would only keep making people hate and fight each other. By forgiving, Mandela helped everyone in South Africa start to get along better.
This wasn’t a weak thing to do; it showed he was very brave and smart. Thanks to his choice to forgive, South Africa could change peacefully. Mandela showed everyone that even when people are very hurt, they can heal by being kind and understanding. His choice to forgive helped make South Africa a place where people want to live together in peace and work for a happier future together.

18. Consider the importance of perseverance in achieving long-term goals. How does Mandela’s story inspire individuals to persist in their own struggles?
Answer- Mandela’s life shows how important it is to keep going, even when your goals seem far away. He fought against unfair rules in South Africa for many years, never giving up, even when things got really tough, like when he had to spend 27 years in jail. But he stuck with it because he believed in what was right.
In the end, his hard work paid off, and he made big changes, not just in his own country but all over the world. His story encourages us to not give up, even when things are moving slowly. Mandela teaches us that if we keep trying and believe in our goals, we can make big things happen.
This is a really important lesson for anyone who is trying to overcome difficulties, showing us that to really make a difference, we need to keep pushing forward.

19. Evaluate the role of personal sacrifice in leadership, drawing examples from Mandela’s life. How does sacrificing personal gain for the greater good influence a leader’s legacy?
Answer- Nelson Mandela’s life is a big lesson on how leaders have to give up a lot for the good of others. He fought against unfair rules in his country and had to give up many things, like his time with his family, and even his safety.
Mandela spent 27 years in jail because he stood up for what he believed in. This showed how much he was willing to give up to make things better for everyone else. Because of this, people all over the world look up to him not just as a political leader, but as a symbol of courage and goodness.
Mandela’s choice to put his country’s needs before his own made him very respected and loved. Leaders who think more about others than themselves can really change things and set a good example for the next leaders. Mandela’s life shows us how powerful it can be when a leader cares more about everyone’s well-being than their own benefits.

20. Discuss the significance of empathy in resolving conflicts. How might Mandela’s empathetic approach have influenced the peaceful transition in South Africa?
Answer- Mandela’s way of understanding and caring about how others feel was very important in changing South Africa peacefully. He could see things from the point of view of both the black people who were treated unfairly and the white people who were worried about the changes.
Mandela knew that to have real peace, everyone’s fears and hopes had to be considered. His ability to feel empathy made it possible for him to talk in a meaningful way with others, helping everyone feel respected and understood. This helped to break down the walls of distrust and anger, making it easier for everyone to start getting along.
Mandela showed that when you really try to understand where others are coming from, you can find fair and lasting solutions to problems. His leadership proved that being empathetic is a very effective way to solve conflicts and bring people together to build a better future.

21. How does Mandela’s journey challenge the traditional notions of power and leadership?
Answer- Mandela’s way of leading was different and special. He didn’t act like a boss who tells everyone what to do. Instead, he was humble, kind, and always thought about what’s fair for everyone. He believed in lifting others up, not just being in charge.
Mandela showed that true strength is about bringing people together for a good cause, not just getting your own way. He liked to talk things out and make peace, not fight or hold grudges. After the unfair rules ended, he worked hard to make sure everyone in South Africa could get along and have a good future together.
Mandela’s story teaches us that being a great leader is about being good and making positive changes, not just being powerful.

22. In what ways does Mandela’s experience demonstrate the importance of resilience in the face of adversity?
Answer- Mandela’s life teaches us how important it is to keep going, even when things get really tough. He spent many years fighting against unfair laws and was even locked up for a long time. But he never gave up. Even in jail, he stayed strong and kept believing in his dream of a fair South Africa where everyone is treated equally.
When he was finally free, instead of being angry, he chose to make peace. This shows how brave and strong he was on the inside. Mandela’s never-give-up attitude motivated many others to keep fighting for what’s right, and in the end, they changed South Africa for the better. His story proves that if you’re really determined and believe in your cause, you can face big challenges and make a big difference.

23. How does Mandela’s approach to deal with his adversaries serve as a model for resolving contemporary conflicts?
Answer- Mandela’s way of handling disagreements is a great lesson for solving problems today. Instead of getting back at people or fighting, he chose to listen and understand where they were coming from.
He believed it was important to see what made them scared or worried because that could help everyone get along better. Mandela was all about making peace and talking things out, not making things worse.
He showed that even people who don’t get along can sit down, talk, and fix their problems. This teaches us that talking and respecting each other can solve big issues better than fighting. Mandela’s story tells us that being kind, listening, and working together can help fix tough situations in a good way that lasts.

24. How does Mandela’s story redefine the concept of victory? Is it possible to achieve true victory without compromising one’s values?
Answer- Mandela’s life teaches us a different way to think about winning. For him, winning wasn’t about beating others or getting back at them. Instead, he saw victory in making things better for everyone in South Africa.
He managed to change the country and end unfair laws by sticking to his beliefs in forgiveness, peace, and treating everyone equally. Mandela showed us that real winning happens when good changes come for everyone, not just a few people.
His story tells us that staying true to what’s right and working for the good of all is the best kind of victory. Mandela’s example helps us see success in a kinder and more fair way, where everyone’s well-being matters.

25. What different concepts of freedom did Mandela have at different stages of his life?

How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience?

Ans. Mandela had different concepts of freedom at different stages of life. As a boy he had an illusion about freedom. He thought he was born free. As long as he obeyed his elders he had the freedom to run in the fields, swim in the stream and ride on the back of bulls.
As a student he cared for transitory freedom — freedom to stay out at night, read the books of his choice and go where he liked.
When he became a young man he yearned for basic and honourable freedoms of achieving his potential, earning his keep, marrying, having a family and living a lawful life.
Slowly his concept of freedom widened, especially when he joined the African National Congress. He realised that true freedom is not individual freedom but freedom for all.

26. The apartheid regime, the whites created in South Africa, was one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world has ever known. Elucidate.
Ans. The apartheid regime symbolised oppression, exploitation and an extraordinary human disaster. The white regime was based on racial discrimination. The blacks in South Africa were deprived of their rights, equality and human dignity. After the Boer war, the white groups in South Africa patched up their differences.
They imposed a system of racial discrimination against the black people of their own land. It was one of the harshest and most inhumane regimes the world has ever known. The policy of apartheid created a deep and lasting wound in South Africa and its people. Thousands of black patriots sacrificed their lives fighting for the rights and freedom of their people.
Thousands of Tambos, Sisulus, Dads, Fishers and Sobukwes suffered deep oppression and tortures but never gave up their cause. Ultimately, their struggles and sacrifices led the blacks to victory under Nelson Mandela. Their victory was a common victory of humanity, for peace, for justice and for human dignity.

27. Which twin obligations does Nelson Mandela mention in the lesson? Why were he and the rest of blacks able to fulfil those obligations?
Ans. Nelson Mandela that every man has twin obligations in life. The first obligation of a man is to his family, to his parents, to his wife and children. He has another obligation also. He has an obligation to his people, his community and his country. Every man is to do his duty according to his situation and strength.
But in South Africa, it was impossible for a man like Mandela or other blacks to fulfil those obligations. If a man tried to live as a human being, he was punished and isolated.
If any person in South Africa tried to do his duty to his people, he was forcefully separated from his family and his home. He was forced to lead a life of secrecy and rebellion. Nelson Mandela placed his people above his family. In attempting to serve his people, he was prevented from fulfilling his obligations as a son, a brother, a father and a husband.

28. How was Mandela’s concept of freedom was different in boyhood and youth than what it was in his mature age? How were ‘transitory freedoms’ changed into his hunger for the freedom of his people?
Ans. Nelson Mandela was not born with a hunger to be free. In his boyhood, he felt free until he obeyed his father and tribe. The concept of freedom was limited only to run in fields, swim in the local stream and ride on the slow-moving bulls. When he was a youth, he realised that his boyhood freedom was an illusion.
His freedom had already taken away from him. He yearned to enjoy ‘transitory freedoms’ like staying out at night, reading and going anywhere as he pleased.
When he joined the African National Congress, only then his own freedom became the greater hunger for his people. He desired that his people should live their lives with dignity and self-respect. This hunger for freedom forced him to be a rebel and live in secrecy away from his family.