Desmond Tutu is known as one of the most influential theologians of South Africa. He won the Nobel Peace Prize for his anti-apartheid work. After apartheid was abolished and Mandela became president, he was nominated as the head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, where he helped heal a nation through radical reconciliation.

0:00 Introduction
0:37 Early Childhood
2:38 College and Marriage
3:39 Journey to the Clergy
6:32 Career During Apartheid
8:05 Development of Black Theology
9:43 Dean of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Johannesburg
11:31 General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches
15:37 Archbishop of Cape Town
19:02 Truth and Reconciliation Commission
28:15 Outside of Ministry and TRC
28:59 Death
30:05 Legacy


Desmond Tutu was born in 1931 in Klerksdorp, a small town in South Africa. He grew up in apartheid-era South Africa, where racial segregation and discrimination were institutionalized. Despite the limitations imposed by apartheid, Tutu was an excellent student and attended university, where he studied theology. After completing his studies, he was ordained as a priest in the Anglican Church.

Tutu was a vocal opponent of apartheid and became a prominent activist in the anti-apartheid movement. He worked tirelessly to promote social justice, human rights, and racial equality in South Africa. Tutu's activism earned him a Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his efforts to bring an end to apartheid. He was the first black African to hold this honor.

In addition to his activism, Tutu was also a renowned theologian. He is known for his work on the concept of ubuntu, which is a traditional African philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity. Tutu's theology was deeply influenced by his experiences in South Africa, and he often spoke about the need for reconciliation and forgiveness in the aftermath of apartheid.

Tutu continued to be an influential figure in South Africa even after the end of apartheid. He served as the Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which was established to address the human rights abuses that occurred during apartheid. Tutu also played an important role in the establishment of the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, which works to combat HIV/AIDS in South Africa.

Desmond Tutu's life is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights. He has inspired countless individuals around the world with his courage, compassion, and wisdom. Tutu passed away on December 26th, 2021. His legacy has left him to be widely recognized as one of the most important theologians and human rights advocates of the 20th century.