Agostinho Neto

President of Angola

17 September 1922 Ícolo e Bengo, Portuguese Angola

10 September 1979(1979-09-10) (56) Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union

11 November 1975 – 10 September 1979

First President of Angola António Agostinho Neto (17 September 1922 – 10 September 1979) was an Angolan politician and poet. He served as the 1st President of Angola (1975–1979), having led the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) in the war for independence (1961–1974). Until his death, he led the MPLA in the civil war (1975–2002). Known also for his literary activities, he is considered Angola's preeminent poet. His birthday is celebrated as National Heroes' Day, a public holiday in Angola.