# Jacob Zuma

> 4th President of South Africa (2009–2018)

**Wikidata**: [Q57282](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q57282)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob_Zuma)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/jacob-zuma

## Summary
Jacob Zuma is a South African politician who served as the 4th President of South Africa from 2009 to 2018. He was a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC) and played a significant role in the anti-apartheid movement, including as a member of the militant wing Umkhonto We Sizwe.

## Biography
- Born: April 12, 1942
- Nationality: South Africa
- Education: Not specified in provided data
- Known for: Serving as President of South Africa (2009–2018)
- Employer(s): African National Congress (ANC), Umkhonto We Sizwe
- Field(s): Politics, Government

## Contributions
Jacob Zuma contributed significantly to South African politics through his leadership roles within the African National Congress and as head of state. His contributions include:
- Leadership in the anti-apartheid struggle, including involvement with Umkhonto We Sizwe
- Presidency of South Africa from 2009 to 2018, during which he oversaw national policy and governance
- Influence on post-apartheid political and social reforms

## FAQs
### Where has Jacob Zuma worked?
Jacob Zuma worked primarily within the African National Congress (ANC), one of South Africa's leading political parties, and was involved in the armed resistance group Umkhonto We Sizwe during the apartheid era.

### What is Jacob Zuma known for?
Jacob Zuma is known for being the 4th President of South Africa, serving from 2009 to 2018, and for his earlier roles in the anti-apartheid movement.

### What organizations or movements was Jacob Zuma involved in?
He was involved in the African National Congress (ANC) and Umkhonto We Sizwe, the armed wing of the ANC during apartheid.

### What awards has Jacob Zuma received?
Jacob Zuma received several international honors, including the Order of José Martí from Cuba, the Order of the Eagle of Zambia, and the Order of the Republic of Serbia.

### What controversies are associated with Jacob Zuma?
Jacob Zuma has faced various legal and political controversies, including allegations of corruption and misconduct during and after his presidency.

## Why They Matter
Jacob Zuma's tenure as President of South Africa marked a pivotal era in the country's post-apartheid history. His leadership influenced national policies, socio-economic reforms, and political dynamics. His legacy includes both significant political achievements and controversies that shaped public discourse and governance in South Africa. His influence extended beyond South Africa through international diplomacy and regional African politics.

## Notable For
- **4th President of South Africa**: Served from 2009 to 2018
- **African National Congress (ANC) Leadership**: Longtime member and influential figure in the party
- **Anti-Apartheid Activism**: Involvement with Umkhonto We Sizwe
- **Order of José Martí Recipient**: Awarded by Cuba
- **Order of the Eagle of Zambia Recipient**: Recognized by Zambia
- **Order of the Republic of Serbia Recipient**: Honored by Serbia
- **Political Controversies**: Faced legal and ethical challenges during and after presidency

## Body
### Early Life and Political Beginnings
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma was born on April 12, 1942. He became involved in politics during the height of apartheid in South Africa and joined the African National Congress (ANC). As a member of Umkhonto We Sizwe, the ANC's armed wing established in 1961, Zuma played a role in the anti-apartheid struggle. His early activism laid the groundwork for his later political career.

### Political Career
Zuma's political career within the ANC began to gain prominence in the 1980s. He held various leadership positions, including regional and national roles, before ascending to the presidency. His political journey was deeply intertwined with the ANC's efforts to dismantle apartheid and establish democratic governance.

### Presidency of South Africa (2009–2018)
Jacob Zuma was inaugurated as the 4th President of South Africa on May 9, 2009, succeeding Thabo Mbeki. His presidency was characterized by efforts to address socio-economic inequality, expand social welfare programs, and navigate complex political dynamics. Key aspects of his tenure included:
- **Economic Policy**: Focused on inclusive growth and poverty alleviation.
- **Social Programs**: Expanded access to housing, healthcare, and education.
- **Infrastructure Development**: Initiated large-scale infrastructure projects to stimulate economic development.
- **International Relations**: Strengthened ties with African nations and global partners.

### Controversies and Legal Issues
Zuma's presidency and post-presidency were marked by numerous controversies, including allegations of corruption, influence peddling, and involvement in state capture scandals. These issues led to legal proceedings and investigations, impacting his political legacy and public perception.

### Awards and Recognition
Jacob Zuma received several international honors, including:
- **Order of José Martí** (awarded by Cuba in 1972)
- **Order of the Eagle of Zambia** (awarded by Zambia in 1965)
- **Order of the Republic of Serbia** (awarded in 2009)

### Post-Presidency and Ongoing Influence
After leaving office in 2018, Zuma remained a prominent figure in South African politics, albeit amid ongoing legal challenges. His influence persists within the ANC and broader political discourse, reflecting his enduring impact on South Africa's socio-political landscape.

### Legacy and Impact
Jacob Zuma's legacy is multifaceted, encompassing his contributions to the anti-apartheid struggle, his presidency, and the controversies that followed. His leadership during a transformative period in South African history underscores the complexities of post-apartheid governance and the challenges of political accountability.

## References

1. Dictionary of African Biography
2. Davos 2014 Participant List
3. Database of Cabinet Politics in Sub-Sahara Africa
4. LIBRIS. 2018
5. [Source](http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-43066443)
6. [Source](http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-43070771)
7. [Source](http://www.pa.org.za/person/jacob-gedleyihlekisa-zuma/)
8. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/person/jacob-zuma-1942)
9. Integrated Authority File
10. [Source](https://www.flickr.com/photos/governmentza/26110176465//)
11. International Standard Name Identifier
12. IMDb
13. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
14. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
15. Munzinger Personen
16. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
17. Virtual International Authority File
18. Davos 2013 Participant List
19. Davos 2015 Participant List
20. Davos 2016 Participant List
21. Davos 2017 Participant List
22. Google Knowledge Graph
23. [Source](http://celebritynetworths.org/jacob-zuma-net-worth/)
24. Quora