NELSON MANDELA DIES AT AGE 95

Mandela at an election rally in 1994. (Walter Dhladhla / AFP - Getty Images)

Story by NBC News
Written by Tracy Connor

Nelson Mandela, the revered South African anti-apartheid icon who spent 27 years in prison, led his country to democracy and became its first black president, died Thursday at home. He was 95.

"He is now resting," said South African President Jacob Zuma. "He is now at peace."

"Our nation as lost his greatest son," he continued. "Our people have lost their father."

A state funeral will be held.

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