Julius Nyerere

1922 - 1999

Julius Nyerere was born in the British colony of Tanganyika. He was the son of a Zanaki chief. He went to university in Britain, where he graduated with a degree in history and economics. When he returned to Tanganyika, he became a teacher.

In 1953, Nyerere helped to start the Tanganyikan African National Union (TANU), which worked for social equality and peaceful relations between races. Nyerere also worked for independence for Tanganyika. When Tanganyika became independent in 1961, Nyerere was Prime Minister.

In 1964 Tanganyika joined Zanzibar to form the Republic of Tanzania, and Nyerere became the new country's first President. He was re-elected President three times, and he resigned in 1985. Nyerere adopted socialist policies, which were only partly successful. Tanzania remained one of the poorest countries in Africa, but it was politically stable and it had one of the highest literacy rates in Africa.

Nyerere was also one of the founders of the Organization of African Unity in 1963. He became one of the most influential leaders in Africa, and an important figure in African affairs. He was listened to and respected throughout the world.