Full Name and Common Aliases

Aung San Suu Kyi, often referred to simply as Suu Kyi, is a prominent political figure known for her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights in Myanmar. Her name is synonymous with the struggle for freedom and justice in her homeland.

Birth and Death Dates

Aung San Suu Kyi was born on June 19, 1945. As of the latest available information, she is still alive and continues to be an influential figure in Myanmar's political landscape.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Aung San Suu Kyi is of Burmese nationality. She is a politician, diplomat, and author. Her career has been marked by her role as a leader of the National League for Democracy (NLD) in Myanmar and her tenure as the State Counsellor, a position akin to a prime minister, from 2016 to 2021.

Early Life and Background

Born in Rangoon (now Yangon), Myanmar, Aung San Suu Kyi is the daughter of Aung San, a revered national hero who played a pivotal role in securing Myanmar's independence from British rule. Her mother, Khin Kyi, was a prominent diplomat. Suu Kyi's early life was deeply influenced by her father's legacy and her mother's diplomatic career, which exposed her to international politics and the importance of national identity.

Suu Kyi pursued her education abroad, attending schools in India and later studying philosophy, politics, and economics at the University of Oxford. Her time in the United Kingdom and subsequent work at the United Nations in New York City broadened her worldview and deepened her understanding of global political dynamics.

Major Accomplishments

Aung San Suu Kyi's most significant accomplishment is her leadership in the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar. In 1988, she returned to Myanmar amidst political upheaval and quickly became a symbol of resistance against the military junta. Her formation of the National League for Democracy (NLD) and her call for nonviolent struggle drew international attention.

In 1991, Suu Kyi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her nonviolent struggle for democracy and human rights. Despite being under house arrest for nearly 15 years, she remained a steadfast advocate for democratic reform, inspiring millions worldwide.

Notable Works or Actions

Aung San Suu Kyi's notable works include her book, "Freedom from Fear," which articulates her philosophy of nonviolent resistance and her vision for a democratic Myanmar. Her speeches and writings have been instrumental in rallying support for the pro-democracy movement both domestically and internationally.

Her release from house arrest in 2010 marked a turning point in Myanmar's political landscape. In the 2015 general elections, the NLD won a landslide victory, and Suu Kyi assumed the role of State Counsellor, effectively becoming the de facto leader of Myanmar.

Impact and Legacy

Aung San Suu Kyi's impact on Myanmar and the world is profound. She is celebrated for her courage and resilience in the face of oppression. Her leadership has been pivotal in Myanmar's transition from military rule to a more open society, although this journey has been fraught with challenges.

Her legacy is complex, as her tenure in government has been marred by criticism over her handling of the Rohingya crisis. Nonetheless, her contributions to the struggle for democracy and her role as a symbol of peaceful resistance remain significant.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Aung San Suu Kyi is widely quoted and remembered for her eloquent articulation of the principles of democracy, freedom, and human rights. Her speeches and writings resonate with those who champion nonviolent resistance and the power of the human spirit to overcome tyranny.

Her famous quote, "It is not power that corrupts but fear," encapsulates her belief in the transformative power of courage and conviction. Suu Kyi's life and work continue to inspire activists and leaders worldwide, making her a lasting figure in the global discourse on democracy and human rights.