President Barack Obama is highly influenced by Nelson Mandela, even though he met him in person only once, the White House today said adding that the anti-apartheid icon was part of an era of historic changes across the world.

"I think that Nelson Mandela had a profound impact on millions and millions of people around the world, and beginning with the citizens of South Africa, millions and millions of people who've never met him."

"And the president, as senator, had the good fortune to meet him, but I don't think that's the reason why he had an influence on Barack Obama. That influence extends, well back in time," White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said.

"I know those of us who were in college in the '80s remember the debates and protests that were happening on college campuses over divestment in South Africa because of apartheid. I think that's what the president was referencing in his own experience," he said and referred to his own experience and a college student.