Andrei Sakharov was a prominent Soviet physicist, best known for his work on the development of the hydrogen bomb. Born on May 21, 1921, in Moscow, he played a crucial role in the Soviet nuclear program during the Cold War. His scientific achievements earned him recognition, but he later became an advocate for human rights and political reform in the Soviet Union. In the 1960s, Sakharov began to speak out against the government's oppressive policies and the dangers of nuclear weapons. He faced persecution for his beliefs, including imprisonment and exile. His efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1975, highlighting his commitment to peace and human rights.