Julius Nyerere was the first President of Tanzania, serving from 1964 to 1985. He played a key role in the country's independence from British colonial rule in 1961. Nyerere is known for promoting the philosophy of Ujamaa, which emphasized socialism and self-reliance, aiming to unite the diverse ethnic groups in Tanzania. Nyerere's leadership focused on education and rural development, but his policies faced criticism for economic challenges. After stepping down, he remained influential in African politics and was respected for his commitment to Pan-Africanism and regional cooperation. He passed away in 1999, leaving a lasting legacy in Tanzania and beyond.