When a child finds out that they’re adopted, it can be a confusing time for them. They may wonder what led to the adoption or have negative feelings that can affect their self-esteem. A great way to help them feel better is by reminding them that they’re not alone. Many people all over the world have been adopted, and a lot of them have even gone on to do wonderful things for the world. Here are a few famous individuals throughout history who were known to have been adopted.

Nelson Mandela

When Nelson Mandela was 9 years old, his father died. He was raised by a tribe chief, and he would eventually become South Africa’s president from 1994 to 1999. Mandela was the first president to be elected in the country during a fully representive democratic election, and he’s most commonly known for being a philanthropist, a politician, and a revolutionary.

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs is one of the most well-known and influential names in technology today, being responsible for founding Apple Inc. Shortly after Jobs was born, his parents gave him up and he was adopted by the couple that raised him. The founding of Apple led to the Macintosh operating system, and eventually other devices such as the incredibly popular iPhone used by many people all over the world today. 

Babe Ruth

Babe Ruth and his sister were sent to an orphanage when they were young, but while thy were there they met Brother Matthias, who taught Babe how to play baseball. Due to his skill in the sport, a talent agent ended up adopting him, and eventually, Ruth became one of the greatest baseball players to ever live. On top of that, Babe Ruth recognized the value of adoption and how it can change a child’s life, and he himself became an adoptive father later in his life.

Eleanor Roosevelt

When Roosevelt was 15, she was a double orphan, and her grandmother took her in. She would eventually become one of the most prominent individuals in the US, serving as the First Lady of the country for over 20 years as well as being a US Delegate to the United Nations General Assembly. She has also been called the “First Lady of the World” due to her achievements in fighting for human rights.

Michael Oher

When he was 17, Michael Oher was adopted after spending several years in various foster homes. Around this time he also became the offensive lineman for the Ole Miss Rebels. He played offensive line for the University of Mississippi before eventually becoming a professional football player when he was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2009. The story of his life was the inspiration for the movie “The Blind Side.”