Albert Luthuli

Albert John Mvumbi Luthuli (1898 – 21 July 1967) was a South African teacher, activist, and politician who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1960 for his role in the non-violent struggle against apartheid. He was the first African to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

Early Life and Education

Albert Luthuli was born in 1898 in Bulawayo, in what was then Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). His father, John Bunyan Luthuli, was a Seventh-day Adventist missionary and interpreter, and his mother, Mtonya Gumede, was a Christian convert. After his father's death, Luthuli's mother moved the family to Groutville, in the Natal province of South Africa, where he was raised by his uncle, Martin Luthuli, who was a chief of the Zulu people.

Luthuli attended the Adams College in Amanzimtoti, where he trained as a teacher. He later became a principal at a local school and was deeply involved in the Christian church, which influenced his philosophy of non-violence.

Political Career

In 1936, Luthuli was elected chief of the Zulu tribe in Groutville, a position he held until 1952 when he was removed by the government for his political activities. Luthuli joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1944 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his leadership skills and commitment to the struggle against racial discrimination.

In 1952, Luthuli was elected president of the ANC, succeeding James Moroka. Under his leadership, the ANC adopted a policy of non-violent resistance against apartheid, inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Luthuli was a key figure in organizing the Defiance Campaign of 1952, which was a mass protest against apartheid laws.

Nobel Peace Prize

In 1960, following the Sharpeville Massacre, where 69 people were killed by police during a protest against pass laws, the South African government banned the ANC. Despite the ban, Luthuli continued to advocate for non-violent resistance. His efforts were recognized internationally, and he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1960. Luthuli used the prize to draw global attention to the injustices of apartheid.

Later Life and Legacy

Luthuli continued to be a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement until his death in 1967. He died in an accident near his home in Stanger, South Africa. His legacy as a leader of the non-violent struggle against apartheid remains significant, and he is remembered as a symbol of peace and justice.

Also see

• African National Congress
• Apartheid in South Africa
• Nobel Peace Prize
• Defiance Campaign
• Sharpeville Massacre