Mário Soares

Profession: President of Portugal

Nationality:

Biography: Mário Soares, often called Portugal's 'father of modern democracy' was a central figure in Portuguese political life in the second half of the 20th century.

As a young man Soares joined the Communist party and actively protested against his country's dictatorship. For this he was imprisoned and forcibly exiled to the island of São Tomé.

Soares came to political prominence during the 'Carnation Revolution' of 1974 as part of the Socialist party, where he served as Foreign Minister.

In 1976 Soares, as leader of the Socialist party became the first elected civilian Prime Minister in more than 50 years when he formed a minority government.

Soares led a further minority government 1983-85, but was thwarted in his efforts to be the one to take Portugal in the EU.

In 1986 he was elected President of Portugal, a mostly honorific role and served till 1996. From 1999-2004 he served in the European parliament

Born: December 7, 1924
Birthplace: Lisbon, Portugal

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: January 7, 2017 (aged 92)