Hastings Kamuzu Banda was the first President of Malawi, serving from 1964 until 1994. He played a significant role in the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1964 and established a one-party state, promoting nationalism and economic development. Banda was known for his authoritarian leadership style and emphasis on traditional values. Banda was born on February 14, 1898, in Kasungu, Malawi. He studied medicine in the United States and returned to his homeland to become a prominent political figure. His presidency ended after a multi-party election in 1994, leading to a more democratic governance structure in Malawi.