Angela Merkel served as the Chancellor of Germany from 2005 to 2021, making her one of the longest-serving leaders in modern German history. Known for her pragmatic and cautious approach, she played a crucial role in navigating the European Union through various crises, including the Eurozone crisis and the refugee crisis. Merkel was the first female Chancellor of Germany and a prominent figure in global politics. Her leadership style emphasized consensus and stability, earning her respect both domestically and internationally. She is often regarded as a key player in shaping modern Europe and addressing global challenges.