- World LEADERS Gather For MANDELA memorial
- Obama, South Africans remember Mandela in Rain
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U.S. President Barack Obama praised him as a "giant of history" and the last great liberator of the 20th century.
- "Over thirty years ago, while still a student, I learned of Mandela and the struggles in this land. It stirred something in me. It woke me up to my responsibilities — to others, and to myself — and set me on an improbable journey that finds me here today." said Obama, who like Mandela became the first black president of his country. Those in the stadium gave roars of approval to Obama's speech.
'A giant of history': Obama's rousing tribute to Mandela as world leaders join Hollywood stars and supermodels at memorial service in Soweto... but why were there so many empty seats?
President Obama speaks to Nelson Mandela's widow Graca Machel during the memorial service
Mr Obama opened his speech by thanking Mandela's family, then continued: 'To the people of South Africa - people of every race and walk of life - the world thanks you for sharing Nelson Mandela with us.
'His struggle was your struggle. His triumph was your triumph. Your dignity and hope found expression in his life, and your freedom, your democracy is his cherished legacy.'
He continued: 'Mandela taught us the power of action, but also ideas; the importance of reason and arguments; the need to study not only those you agree with, but those who you don't.'
Referring to the anti-apartheid icon's friendship with his own prison warders, the President said: 'It took a man like Madiba to free not just the prisoner, but the gaoler as well.'
Mr Obama concluded: 'We will never see the likes of Nelson Mandela again. But let me say to the young people of Africa, and young people around the world - you can make his life's work your own.'
On his way to the podium, the President shook hands with Raul Castro, whose brother Fidel has long been one of the fiercest enemies of the U.S. - testament to Mandela's ability to bring warring parties together in his memory.
