Shigenobu Okuma was a prominent Japanese politician and educator, born on March 11, 1838. He played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration, which transformed Japan from a feudal society into a modern state. Okuma was a key figure in the establishment of the Meiji Constitution and served as the Prime Minister of Japan twice, first in 1898 and again in 1914. In addition to his political career, Okuma founded Waseda University in 1882, which became one of Japan's leading institutions of higher education. He was known for his advocacy of democracy and education, emphasizing the importance of learning in shaping a modern society. Okuma passed away on January 10, 1922.