José Mujica was the President of Uruguay from 2010 to 2015. Growing up in a poor and remote area of his native country, he faced a difficult start in life. When his father died—reportedly due to health issues exacerbated by financial hardship—José was compelled to help his family survive. He carried this resilience with him when he joined the Tupamaros, an armed leftist guerrilla group inspired by the Cuban Revolution. Living and training in the jungle, the group was determined to overthrow Uruguay’s authoritarian regime. After a series of bold operations, Mujica and other members were captured and sentenced to long prison terms. Mujica endured nearly 15 years in prison, much of it in harsh conditions and solitary confinement, until his release in 1985, following the return of democracy in Uruguay. Choosing a new path, he entered politics through the Broad Front coalition. He served as Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries before running for president. Known for his humility and progressive ideals, Mujica won the presidency in 2009. During his tenure, he implemented significant social reforms, including legalizing same-sex marriage, abortion, and the regulated sale of marijuana, making Uruguay a regional pioneer in progressive policymaking. His leadership and alliances with like-minded nations strengthened Uruguay’s influence in Latin America. After serving a full five-year term, Mujica stepped down in 2015, as Uruguay's constitution prohibits immediate re-election. He returned to a modest lifestyle, living on his small farm and continuing to be admired for his integrity, frugality, and commitment to social justice. Mujica passed away on May 13, 2025, just one week before his 90th birthday, at his farmhouse in Rincón del Cerro, located on the outskirts of Montevideo.