May 10, 1994 : The inauguration ceremony for South Africa's first black president, Nelson Mandela, took place in the Union Buildings amphitheatre in Pretoria, attended by politicians and dignitaries from more than 140 countries around the world.
As part of the ceremony he pledged his allegiance to South Africa and his determination to continue his work for reconciliation.
"I do hereby swear to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and do solemnly and sincerely promise to promote that which will advance and to oppose all that may harm the republic... and to devote myself to the well-being of the republic and all its people."