Global Times Special Coverage:

Former South African president Nelson Mandela has died at the age of 95 Thursday, President Jacob Zuma announced.

"He is now resting. He is now at peace," South African President Zuma said, "Our nation has lost its greatest son. Our people have lost a father."

Mandela, who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, had battled health problems in recent months, including a recurring lung infection that led to numerous hospitalizations.

Mandela was released from hospital in early September following an 85-day stay for a recurring lung infection, the result of his longtime imprisonment during the apartheid times.

Backgrounder: Major events in life of Nelson Mandela