F.W. de Klerk was a South African politician who served as the last State President of apartheid-era South Africa from 1989 to 1994. He was a member of the National Party and played a crucial role in the transition from apartheid to a democratic society. De Klerk is best known for his decision to dismantle the apartheid system and for initiating negotiations to end racial segregation. In 1990, he famously released Nelson Mandela from prison, which marked a significant turning point in South Africa's history. De Klerk and Mandela worked together to establish a new constitution, leading to the first multiracial elections in 1994. Their efforts earned them the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.