Thomas Mtobi Mapikela | |
|---|---|
 The 1914 South African Native National Congress delegation to Britain (L-R: Walter Rubusana, Thomas Mapikela, Saul Msane, John Dube, and Sol Plaatje) | |
| Born | 12 November 1869 Hleuhoeng Lesotho |
| Died | 1945 |
| Nationality | South African |
| Occupations |
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| Years active | 1903–1945 |
| Known for | Founding member and speaker of the South African Native National Congress |
Thomas Mtobi Mapikela (1869–1945) was one of the founding fathers of the South African Native National Congress which was formed 1912 and, in 1923, became the African National Congress. He was a carpenter by profession, but soon played a significant role in politics at the height of his career. He is renowned for his contribution towards the attainment of democracy in South Africa.