Józef Piłsudski was a Polish statesman and military leader, born on December 5, 1867. He played a crucial role in the restoration of Poland's independence after World War I, which had been partitioned among Germany, Russia, and Austria-Hungary for over a century. Piłsudski served as the Chief of State and later as the de facto leader of Poland. He was also a key figure in the establishment of the Second Polish Republic and promoted a vision of a strong, independent Poland. Piłsudski's leadership style was often authoritarian, and he implemented significant reforms in the military and government. He passed away on May 12, 1935.