Saparmurat Niyazov, the former president of Turkmenistan, died on December 21, 2006 at the age of 66. Niyazov was born in 1940 in a rural village in the Soviet Republic of Turkmenistan, and throughout his life was passionate advocate for Turkmen culture, language, and independence. Under his leadership, Turkmenistan officially gained independence from the Soviet Union and Niyazov was elected its first president in October of 1991. During his rule, Niyazov ushered in a period of unprecedented economic and social progress. He implemented sweeping economic reforms, provided free health care and education to all citizens, and modernized the government and infrastructure. He also worked to protect and preserve Turkmen culture and identity, and was a strong defender of human rights and the rule of law. Niyazov was an influential, larger-than-life figure who supported his constituents in their pursuit of independence and prosperity. He will be remembered as an inspirational leader who championed the people of Turkmenistan and advanced the country’s development.