The leaders and reformers who changed the course of nations and the lives within them.
The first president of Senegal and one of Africa's greatest intellectuals, Leopold Sedar Senghor blended poetry, philosophy and statecraft in a remarkable life. This is his story.
The first President of independent Mozambique and a leading figure of African liberation, Samora Machel led the fight against colonial rule before dying in a plane crash that remains disputed. This is his story.
The first President of Zambia, Kenneth Kaunda led his nation to independence, championed African liberation across the continent, and governed for 27 years. This is his story.
A pioneering women's rights leader, educator and nationalist, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti led one of the most successful protest movements in colonial Nigeria. This is her story.
Emperor of Ethiopia, defender of his nation against fascism, and a founding force behind African unity, Haile Selassie remains one of the most significant figures in modern African history. This is his story.
The first prime minister and president of independent Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta led his country from colonial rule to nationhood and became a towering figure of African independence. This is his story.
Premier of the Western Region, federal finance minister and three-time presidential contender, Chief Obafemi Awolowo shaped modern Nigeria like few others. This is his story.
The founder of the Green Belt Movement and the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari Maathai linked ecology, democracy and women's rights. This is her story.
Known to millions as Zik of Africa, Nnamdi Azikiwe was a journalist and nationalist who helped lead Nigeria to independence and became the first president of the republic. This is his story.
The first woman to be elected head of state in Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf led Liberia's recovery from civil war and won the Nobel Peace Prize. This is her story.