Shintaro Ishihara is a Japanese politician and author, known for his role as the Governor of Tokyo from 1999 to 2012. Born on November 30, 1932, he gained prominence for his outspoken views on various issues, including Japan's national identity and foreign relations. Ishihara is also recognized for his literary work, having written several novels and essays. In addition to his political career, Ishihara co-founded the Japan Restoration Party in 2012, aiming to revitalize Japanese politics. His controversial statements often sparked debate, making him a significant figure in contemporary Japanese politics and culture.