Pedro Pires

About

Known for his tenure as the 3rd President of Cape Verde from March 2001 through September 2011. Prior to this, he had served as the nation's Prime Minister, an office he originated, from 1975 through 2001.

Before Fame

He attended the Lisbon University of Sciences in Portugal beginning in 1956. He eventually left early, as he was drafted into the Portuguese Air Force as an officer.

Trivia

He helped lead the revolution against the colonial Portuguese government in 1974 that would lead to the establishment of Cape Verde as a sovereign nation. In March 2011, he was awarded the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership.

Family Life

He was born and raised in Fogo, Cape Verde.

Associated With

In March 2011, he joined Joaquim Chissano in receiving the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership.