Norodom Sihanouk
Norodom Sihanouk (1922-2012) dominated Cambodian politics for six decades. He negotiated independence from France in 1953, then abdicated the throne to enter politics as Prime Minister and head of state. His attempt to keep Cambodia neutral in the Vietnam War collapsed when a US-backed coup in 1970 installed Lon Nol, leading to civil war and ultimately the Khmer Rouge genocide. He returned as king from 1993 to 2004 after the Paris Peace Accords.
- Nationality: Cambodian
- Roles: head_of_state, king, statesman
