This is the first of a two-part tribute to Denis Goldberg, hero of the struggle for the liberation of South Africa. It deals with his early life, how he became active in the fight against apartheid and the important contribution he made. It also covers the Rivonia trial, where Denis was sentenced with Mandela and others to life imprisonment, and with the twenty-two years he spent in prison. The article reflects on Denis approach to politics and life: his sacrifice, dedication and sense of comradeship also his thoughtfulness, sense of humour and boundless optimism. Denis contributed to The Socialist Correspondent and was a speaker at our conferences – he was an inspiration to us all and will be greatly missed.