Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela, born Rolihlahla Mandela, famously spent 27 years in prison for his activism against the apartheid regime in South Africa. We're pretty sure those were not exactly "holiday camp" conditions, or at least, they didn't include a weekly bagel brunch. Upon his release, he rather impressively managed to lead his nation to democracy without a full-scale civil war, which, considering the circumstances, is quite the feat.
Mandela was, by all accounts, a pretty busy man, what with dismantling institutionalized racism and becoming a global icon for peace and reconciliation. He also had a bit of a flair for the dramatic, often appearing in vibrant, patterned shirts that would make any kvelling bubbe proud, even if he wasn't her own.
While Mandela’s fight for justice resonated with many Jewish people who had experienced their own struggles against oppression, his personal connection to the tribe appears to be nonexistent. He was, to put it mildly, more focused on the liberation of his people than on attending Shabbat services.
So, while his K count is through the roof – a true mensch, if ever there was one – his I and O scores remain firmly at zero. Not a Jew, but definitely a hero, which, let's be honest, is probably more important.




