The central element of Nelson Mandela's fight against apartheid was his relentless pursuit of equality and justice for all South Africans, regardless of race. Mandela focused on dismantling the systematic racial segregation and oppression enacted by the apartheid regime, advocating for nonviolent resistance and negotiations. He emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, believing that true progress could only be made by addressing the deep-seated divisions in South African society. Through his leadership in the African National Congress (ANC) and his eventual presidency, Mandela's vision encompassed a democratic and inclusive society where all citizens could coexist peacefully and with dignity.