AUTOBIOGRAPHY

Auto means self

Bio refers to life

An autobiography is a written account of one’s own life.

Features of an autobiography include the following:

 It is written in first person point of view.

 Follows chronological order
 It is subjective in that they reflect the author’s interpretation of events and memories.
 There is authenticity-the author provides the readers with genuine information.
 It also involves motivations and emotions throughout the author’s life journey.
 Always have a title
 Introduction- Start with basic details about yourself - name, age, where you're from, etc.
Keep it concise but engaging.
 Early Life- Share significant events or experiences from your childhood that shaped who
you are today. It could be family dynamics, memorable moments, or influential people.
 Education-Discuss your academic journey, including favorite subjects, challenges you've
faced, and achievements you're proud of.
 Interests and Hobbies- Highlight activities you enjoy outside of school. This could
include sports, arts, music, volunteering, etc.
 Goals and Aspirations-Share your dreams and ambitions for the future. What do you hope
to achieve academically, professionally, and personally?
 Challenges and Obstacles- Reflect on any difficulties you've encountered and how you've
overcome them. This shows resilience and growth.
 Influential People-Mention individuals who have had a significant impact on your life,
whether it's family members, teachers, mentors, or friends.
 Values and Beliefs-Discuss your core values and beliefs that guide your actions and
decisions.
 Conclusion- sum up your autobiography by summarizing what you've learned about
yourself and what you hope readers take away from your story.
 Sample.
Long walk to freedom

I was born on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo, Transkei, South Africa. My father, Gadla
Henry Mphakanyiswa, was a chief, and my mother, Nosekeni Fanny, was his third wife.
Growing up, I herded cattle and spent my days exploring the hills and valleys of our homeland,
where I learned the values of community, respect, and dignity.

Education was my ticket to a brighter future. I attended primary school in Qunu and then moved
to Clarkebury Boarding Institute for my secondary education. Later, I studied law at the
University of Fort Hare and the University of Witwatersrand. It was during my time at university
that I became increasingly involved in activism against apartheid, joining the African National
Congress (ANC) in 1944.

The fight against apartheid consumed my life. I participated in nonviolent protests, led
campaigns, and advocated for the rights of black South Africans. However, as the government
intensified its repression, I realized that peaceful resistance alone would not bring about change.
In 1961, I co-founded Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), the armed wing of the ANC, to
pursue a more militant approach to resistance.

In 1962, I was arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment for my involvement in anti-apartheid
activities. For 27 years, I was confined to prison cells on Robben Island, Pollsmoor, and Victor
Verster. Yet, even behind bars, I remained committed to the cause of freedom and equality. My
imprisonment became a symbol of the struggle against injustice, inspiring millions around the
world to join the fight.

After decades of international pressure and internal unrest, apartheid finally began to crumble. In
1990, President F.W. de Klerk lifted the ban on the ANC, and I was released from prison. I
emerged determined to pursue reconciliation and build a new, democratic South Africa. In 1994,
I was elected as the country's first black president in free and fair elections, marking the dawn of
a new era of democracy.

My presidency was characterized by efforts to heal the wounds of the past and promote national
unity. I established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address the atrocities of
apartheid and promote forgiveness and healing. Though I retired from politics in 1999, my
legacy as a symbol of hope, resilience, and forgiveness continues to inspire people around the
world. My autobiography, "Long Walk to Freedom," remains a testament to the power of
perseverance and the belief in the inherent dignity of all humankind.