Mikhail Khodorkovsky is a Russian businessman and former oligarch who became one of the richest people in Russia during the 1990s. He was the head of Yukos, an oil company that played a significant role in the Russian economy. Khodorkovsky was known for his efforts to modernize the company and promote corporate governance, which made him a target of the Russian government. In 2003, Khodorkovsky was arrested on charges of fraud and tax evasion, which many believe were politically motivated. His imprisonment drew international attention and criticism, highlighting issues of political repression in Russia. After spending ten years in prison, he was released in 2013 and has since become an advocate for democracy and human rights.