What honor did the United States Congress award Nelson Mandela in 1998?

The United States Congress awarded Nelson Mandela the Congressional Gold Medal in 1998.

The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors granted by the United States. Congress uses it to recognize people whose achievements have made a major impact on American history, world affairs, or human rights. Mandela received the honor for his leadership in opposing apartheid and promoting democratic reconciliation.

The award came after Mandela became South Africa’s first democratically elected president in 1994. It recognized both his long resistance to racial segregation and his efforts to build a peaceful transition rather than seek revenge against former opponents.

Mandela was among the international figures who received the medal during a period when the United States was publicly honoring his human-rights leadership. The award is distinct from the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is presented by the president rather than authorized directly by Congress.