Kenneth Kaunda

28 April 1924 – 17 June 2021

Kenneth Kaunda was a Zambian politician who served as the first president of Zambia from 1964 to 1991. He led the country to independence from Britain and championed African liberation movements before peacefully handing over power after multiparty elections.

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Life events

Born in Chinsali, Northern Rhodesia
28 April 1924

Kaunda was born at a mission station, the son of an ordained minister and teacher.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Worked as a teacher
1943

He trained and worked as a schoolteacher before entering politics.

Career ?
Founded the Zambian African National Congress
1958

He broke away to form the ZANC to press for independence.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Became leader of the United National Independence Party
1960

He took over leadership of UNIP, which spearheaded the independence campaign.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Became President of Zambia
24 October 1964 – 2 November 1991

He became the first president as Zambia gained independence from Britain.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
Achievement ✓
Established a one-party state
1972

He made UNIP the sole legal party, consolidating power under his humanist philosophy.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Lost the multiparty election and left office
2 November 1991

He conceded defeat to Frederick Chiluba and peacefully handed over power.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Died in Lusaka
17 June 2021

He died at a military hospital in Lusaka, Zambia.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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