Obituary – Cause of Death : “Renowned Photographer Peter Magubane Dies at 91, Documented Apartheid Era and Mandela’s Freedom”

RIP

Peter Magubane, a fearless photographer who captured the violence and horror of South Africa’s apartheid era of racial oppression, and was entrusted with documenting Nelson Mandela’s first years of freedom after his release from prison, has died at the age of 91.

Peter Magubane’s death has left a void in the world of photography and journalism. Born in Vrededorp, Johannesburg, in 1932, Magubane grew up during a time of immense racial inequality and injustice. His experiences as a black man in apartheid South Africa shaped his perspective and fueled his determination to expose the truth through his lens.

Magubane began his career as a photographer in the 1950s, working for various publications. He quickly gained recognition for his powerful and evocative images, which captured the essence of the struggle for freedom and equality. His photographs documented the brutality of apartheid, the protests, and the resilience of the black community.

One of Magubane’s most renowned works is the series of photographs he took during Nelson Mandela’s first years of freedom. After Mandela’s release from prison in 1990, Magubane was chosen to document the iconic leader’s journey as he emerged from decades of captivity and embarked on a path of reconciliation and nation-building. His photographs became a symbol of hope and a testament to the triumph over adversity.

Throughout his career, Magubane faced numerous challenges and risks. He was arrested several times and his work was often censored by the government. However, he remained undeterred, driven by his commitment to exposing the truth and giving a voice to the voiceless.

Magubane’s photographs have been exhibited in galleries around the world, and his work has received numerous awards and accolades. His images continue to serve as a powerful reminder of the struggle for freedom and the resilience of the human spirit.

While the cause of Peter Magubane’s death has not been disclosed, his legacy as a fearless photographer and a chronicler of South Africa’s history will live on. His photographs will continue to inspire future generations, reminding them of the importance of truth, justice, and the power of visual storytelling.

Magubane’s death is a loss not only to the photography community but to the world as a whole. His photographs captured the raw emotions and realities of apartheid, leaving an indelible mark on history. Through his lens, he gave a voice to the oppressed and shed light on the injustice that plagued South Africa for so long.

As we mourn the passing of Peter Magubane, let us remember his bravery, his unwavering dedication, and his profound impact on the world. May his photographs continue to educate, inspire, and ignite change for generations to come..

RIP

"Peter Magubane, a fearless photographer who captured the violence and horror of SA's apartheid era of racial oppression, and was entrusted with documenting Nelson Mandela's first years of freedom after his release from prison, has died. He was 91."https://t.co/l5zImIeCmO

— Chris Hattingh 🇿🇦🌐🚢🏭📈 (@ChrisHatt11) January 2, 2024

Condolences

@ChrisHatt11 said RIP "Peter Magubane, a fearless photographer who captured the violence and horror of SA's apartheid era of racial oppression, and was entrusted with documenting Nelson Mandela's first years of freedom after his release from prison, has died. He was 91." apnews.com/article/peter-…