Lula

Lula, full name Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (born 27 October 1945), is a Brazilian politician who has served as president of Brazil from 2003 to 2010 and again since 2023. A longtime union organizer from the state of São Paulo, he co-founded the Workers' Party (Partido dos Trabalhadores, PT) in 1980 as part of Brazil's return to democracy after military rule.

Early life and career: He was born in Caetés, Pernambuco, and moved with his family to the industrial belt surrounding São Paulo as a teenager. He rose from metalworker and trade union organizer to national politics, gaining prominence as a voice for workers and the poor.

Presidency (2003–2010): Lula's government emphasized social inclusion and poverty reduction, notably through programs such as Bolsa Família and Fome Zero. The period saw steady economic growth linked to commodity demand, rising employment, and expanded access to credit. His administration pursued labor rights, education, and social programs while maintaining coalition politics and pragmatic economic policy.

Post-presidency and return to power: After leaving office, Lula faced corruption investigations that led to convictions and imprisonment in 2018. In 2021, Brazil's Supreme Federal Court ruled that those cases lacked proper jurisdiction, resulting in the annulment of the convictions and restoring his political rights. He won the presidency again in the 2022 election and took office on 1 January 2023.

Legacy and significance: Lula remains a central figure in Brazilian politics, associated with social program expansion and poverty reduction, while his career has been marked by controversy and polarization. The name Lula also exists as a common nickname and, in Portuguese, refers to an octopus.