First President of Suriname, leading the country to independence from the Netherlands in 1975 and serving as a symbol of national pride. He was a dedicated educator and politician who fought for Suriname's autonomy.
Johan Ferrier is revered as the first president of Suriname, serving from 1975 to 1980, and the last governor-general of the country before independence from the Netherlands. This esteemed politician played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's trajectory, earning him the distinction of being named the 20th century's most important politician in Suriname in 1999.
Born on May 12, 1910, in Paramaribo, Suriname's capital, Ferrier grew up in a country still under Dutch colonial rule. He pursued a career in teaching, a vocation that would shape his later political endeavors. In 1950, he earned a doctorate in education theory from the University of Amsterdam, further solidifying his commitment to the development of Suriname's education system.
Ferrier's impact extended beyond the realm of politics. As a cofounder of the Boy Scouts van Suriname, he championed the growth of the organization, fostering a sense of community and national pride. His dedication to scouting culminated in the establishment of the Johan Ferrier Group, which remains an active and thriving entity to this day.
Ferrier's entry into politics was marked by his involvement in the founding of the National Party of Suriname in 1946. He served as a member of the National Council from 1946 to 1948 and later held various ministerial positions, including prime minister and interior minister, from 1955 to 1958. His leadership acumen and commitment to education led to his appointment as Suriname's head of education.
As governor-general from 1968 to 1975, Ferrier played a crucial role in Suriname's transition towards independence. On November 25, 1975, Suriname finally gained independence, and Ferrier was sworn in as the country's first president. His presidency was marked by a commitment to democracy and national development.
Ferrier's contributions to Suriname's growth and development were recognized with the award of the Grand Cordon in the Honorary Order of the Yellow Star by Prime Minister Henk Chin A Sen in 1980. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Surinamese, solidifying his place as one of the nation's most revered figures.
89 Years Old
The 6th President of Suriname, serving from 2000 to 2010, known for promoting national unity and economic development in the country. He played a key role in shaping Suriname's modern political landscape.
80 Years Old
A former military dictator who seized power in a coup and later became the president of Suriname, known for his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses.
