Mahmoud Ahmadinejad: A Political Biography
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (born November 26, 1956) is an Iranian politician who served as the sixth President of Iran from 2005 to 2013. His tenure was marked by controversial domestic and foreign policies, particularly his handling of Iran’s economy and its nuclear program. Prior to his presidency, he served as the first Governor of Ardabil from 1993 to 1997 and as the Mayor of Tehran from 2003 to 2005. Ahmadinejad’s political career has been defined by his populist rhetoric, nationalist policies, and contentious relationship with both domestic opposition and the international community.
Early Life and Education
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was born in Aradaan, a suburb of Garmsar, in present-day Semnan Province. He was the fourth of seven children in a middle-class family. His father was a blacksmith who decided to relocate the family to Tehran for better economic opportunities. Ahmadinejad showed an early interest in academics and was a diligent student. He completed his elementary and secondary education in Tehran, attending Daneshmand High School, where he excelled in mathematics and science.