Modibo Keïta was a prominent Malian politician and the first President of Mali. He served from 1960 until 1968, after leading the country to independence from France. Keïta was a key figure in the establishment of a socialist government and focused on nationalizing industries and promoting education. Born on January 10, 1915, in Bamako, Keïta was a member of the Sudanese Union and played a significant role in the fight for Mali's independence. His presidency was marked by efforts to modernize the economy and improve social services, although it faced challenges, leading to a coup that ended his rule.