U Nu

ModernPoliticianMyanmar1907 — 1995

First prime minister of independent Burma.

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Quick Facts

Born

1907

Died

1995

Country

Myanmar

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)14

Political (20%)47

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)64

Strategy (15%)35

Total Score45.7

U Nu — Complete Timeline

1948 AD

Became first Prime Minister of independent BurmaPolitical Action◆ Major

U Nu became the first Prime Minister of independent Burma (Myanmar) after the country gained independence from Britain. He led the Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League (AFPFL) government.

IndependencePrime MinisterBurma

Impact: nationalconstructive

1949 AD

Adopted a policy of neutrality in the Cold WarPolitical Action◆ Major

U Nu adopted a policy of neutrality and non-alignment, refusing to join either the US or Soviet blocs. He hosted the first Afro-Asian Conference in Rangoon in 1955, promoting decolonization and peace.

NeutralityCold WarNon-Alignment

Impact: regionalconstructive

1962 AD

Resigned after the 1962 coupPolitical Action◆ Major

U Nu was overthrown in a military coup led by General Ne Win. He was placed under house arrest and later exiled, ending his democratic experiment and ushering in decades of military rule.

CoupExileEnd of Democracy

Impact: nationaltragic

1988 AD

Returned to politics and formed a new partyPolitical Action

During the 8888 Uprising, U Nu returned to politics and formed the League for Democracy and Peace. He attempted to challenge the military regime but was soon placed under house arrest again.

Political ReturnUprisingOpposition

Impact: national