Ngo Dinh Diem was a Vietnamese politician who served as the first President of South Vietnam from 1955 until his assassination in 1963. He was a staunch anti-communist and was supported by the United States during the early years of the Cold War. Diem's government faced criticism for its authoritarian practices and lack of political freedoms. Diem was born on January 3, 1901, in Vietnam and was educated in France. He became involved in politics after returning to Vietnam and was appointed Prime Minister in 1954. His leadership style and policies led to widespread discontent, ultimately resulting in his overthrow and death during a military coup.