José Mujica

About

Uruguayan politician who became the 40th President of Uruguay in 2010. Prior to winning the Presidency, he worked as the Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries until 2008. 

Before Fame

He was a guerrilla leader who was a part of the Tupamaros movement that led the 1969 brief takeover of Pando, a town close to Montevideo.

Trivia

He has often been labeled the world's "poorest President," since he donates around 90% of his 12,000/month salary to different charities. He was known for his progressive policies which included decriminalizing abortion, legalization of gay marriage and the decriminalization of drugs. 

Family Life

He was married to his wife Lucía Topolansky in 2005 until his passing in May 2025.  

Associated With

He was both preceded and succeeded as President of Uruguay by Tabaré Vazquez.