Nelson Mandela, South Africa's Rainbow Nation, and 'Invictus'

The Rainbow Nation

Nelson Mandela often referred to South Africa as the "Rainbow Nation" to capture the diversity of the country's population and to emphasize the vision of unity in the post-apartheid era. The term "Rainbow Nation" reflects Mandela's commitment to building a nation where people of different races, ethnicities, and backgrounds could coexist harmoniously.

The Madiba Clan

Nelson Mandela belonged to the Thembu royal family, and his clan within the Thembu people is called the Madiba clan. "Madiba" was also a term of respect and endearment that many South Africans used to refer to Mandela.

Flags in 'Invictus'

In the movie "Invictus," during the first rugby match, you would see the national flags of South Africa and Australia. The scene likely features the Springboks, the South African national rugby team, competing against the Australian team.

The Springboks

The Springbok is the nickname for the South African national rugby union team. Historically, the Springbok emblem had been associated with the apartheid era and was viewed by many black South Africans as a symbol of the oppressive regime. The Springboks had been associated with the white minority government and were seen by some as a representation of racial division and inequality. However, during Nelson Mandela's presidency and the period depicted in the movie "Invictus," efforts were made to transform the Springboks into a symbol of unity and reconciliation.

Mandela's Bodyguards in 'Invictus'

In the movie "Invictus," the relationship among Nelson Mandela's bodyguards undergoes a significant transformation. At the beginning of the film, there is some tension and distrust among the bodyguards, who come from different racial backgrounds. This reflects the lingering divisions in South Africa following the end of apartheid.

However, as the story unfolds and Mandela works to unite the nation through the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the bodyguards begin to overcome their initial prejudices and develop a sense of camaraderie. The shared experiences and the common goal of supporting Mandela and the national rugby team contribute to the gradual breaking down of racial barriers among the bodyguards.