Tambo, Oliver Reginald

views updated

Tambo, Oliver Reginald (1917–93). Christian leader, known as OR, who led the struggle for a free and democratic S. Africa. He was educated at mission schools in the Transkei, and was sponsored by the Anglican Province of S. Africa at St Peter's school, Rosettenville, and at the University of Fort Hare. He was dismissed from Fort Hare for ‘subversive activities’, and became a teacher. He retained the support of the Anglican Church as he translated his deep religious convictions into the political struggle for freedom. He was President of the ANC, 1967–90, and was accused by the S. African regime of being a communist and a terrorist.

More From encyclopedia.com