Stefan Bandera was a Ukrainian political leader and nationalist born on January 1, 1909. He played a significant role in the Ukrainian independence movement during the 20th century, particularly during World War II. Bandera was a prominent figure in the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), advocating for an independent Ukraine free from foreign domination. His actions and ideology have been controversial, as Bandera's group collaborated with Nazi Germany at times, seeking to establish Ukrainian sovereignty. After the war, he lived in exile and continued to promote Ukrainian nationalism until his assassination in 1959. His legacy remains a topic of debate in Ukraine and beyond.