BBC NEWS | In Pictures | In pictures: Mandela's birthday

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16:44 GMT, Friday, 18 July 2008 17:44 UK

In pictures: Mandela's birthday

A painting of Nelson Mandela, one of many gifts presented to Mr Mandela, at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg

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Nelson Mandela, one of the world's most revered statesmen and the icon of the anti-apartheid movement, has marked his 90th birthday by calling for the rich to do more for the poor.

Cup cakes at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg

Cup cakes at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Johannesburg

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Mr Mandela said he was fortunate to have reached 90, but that many of the poor were unlikely to live that long.

A man takes a photo of a historical photo of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, South Africa

A man takes a photo of a historical photo of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, South Africa

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Jailed for 27 years for his part in the African National Congress (ANC) campaign against white minority rule, he emerged to become South Africa's first black president.

Former Robben Island prisoner Tokyo Sexwale, left, and Mac Maharaj, right, with a cake made in honour of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, South Africa

Former Robben Island prisoner Tokyo Sexwale, left, and Mac Maharaj, right, with a cake made in honour of Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, South Africa

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His fellow Robben Island prisoners, former jailers and friends joined in celebrations marking his birthday.

A poster wishing former Nelson Mandela a happy birthday is displayed on the front of the African National Congress headquarters in Johannesburg

A poster wishing former Nelson Mandela a happy birthday is displayed on the front of the African National Congress headquarters in Johannesburg

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The ANC is displaying two huge banners of Mr Mandela on the side of its headquarters, Luthuli House, in Johannesburg.

Children at the Bertrams Junior School in Johannesburg eat cake as they celebrate Nelson Mandela's birthday

Children at the Bertrams Junior School in Johannesburg eat cake as they celebrate Nelson Mandela's birthday

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Nelson Mandela has become South Africa's highest-profile ambassador, campaigning against HIV/Aids and helping to secure his country's right to host the 2010 football World Cup.

Nelson Mandela poses with his grandchildren, at his home in Qunu, South Africa, 18/07/08

Nelson Mandela poses with his grandchildren, at his home in Qunu, South Africa, 18/07/08

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In 2004, at the age of 85, Mr Mandela retired from public life to spend more time with his family and friends, and engage in "quiet reflection".

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