The first president of Armenia, a scholar and politician who played a key role in the country's transition to independence from the Soviet Union, known for his efforts to establish democratic reforms.
Levon Ter-Petrosyan, affectionately known as LTP, is an Armenian politician and historian who etched his name in history as the first president of Armenia, serving from 1991 to 1998. He is revered for his unwavering commitment to the unification of Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia, a movement that began in 1988.
As a senior researcher at the Matenadaran, Ter-Petrosyan's academic background in history laid the foundation for his future political endeavors. His extensive research on Armenian history and culture instilled in him a deep sense of national pride, which would later fuel his desire for Armenian independence.
In 1988, Ter-Petrosyan spearheaded the Karabakh movement, advocating for the unification of Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. This movement marked the beginning of a new era in Armenian history, as the nation began to demand independence from Soviet rule. Ter-Petrosyan's leadership and vision played a pivotal role in Armenia's declaration of independence in September 1991.
Following Armenia's declaration of independence, Ter-Petrosyan was elected president in October 1991, winning with overwhelming public support. During his presidency, he navigated the country through the tumultuous First Nagorno-Karabakh War with Azerbaijan, while also addressing the challenges of building a newly independent nation.
Ter-Petrosyan's presidency was not without controversy, however. Allegations of electoral fraud in the 1996 presidential election sparked mass protests, which were ultimately suppressed by military force. This period of unrest marked a turning point in his presidency, culminating in his resignation on February 3, 1998.
Following his resignation, Ter-Petrosyan remained inactive in politics for nearly a decade. However, in 2007, he made a political comeback, announcing his candidacy for the 2008 presidential election. Although he lost to Serzh Sargsyan, Ter-Petrosyan alleged electoral fraud and led mass protests against the government.
In 2008, Ter-Petrosyan founded the Armenian National Congress (ANC), a coalition of over a dozen political parties and NGOs. The ANC became the main opposition party in Armenia, with Ter-Petrosyan at its helm.
Levon Ter-Petrosyan's legacy is complex and multifaceted. While his presidency was marked by challenges and controversy, his commitment to Armenian independence and unification remains unwavering. His leadership played a crucial role in shaping the course of Armenian history, earning him a place among the nation's most revered figures.
Today, Ter-Petrosyan continues to be an influential voice in Armenian politics, advocating for democracy, human rights, and national unity. His unwavering dedication to the Armenian people serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
