U Nu, Burmese politician, 1st Prime Minister of Burma (b. 1907)

U Nu: Burma's First Prime Minister and Nationalist Leader

U Nu (Burmese: ဦးနု; pronounced [ʔú nṵ]), born on 25 May 1907 and passing away on 14 February 1995, was an exceptionally influential figure in the history of Burma, now known as Myanmar. He is widely recognized as a pivotal Burmese statesman and a fervent nationalist politician, playing a crucial role in the nation's journey to independence and its early years as a sovereign state.

Known affectionately as U Nu, the prefix "U" is a deeply respected Burmese honorific, equivalent to "Mr." or "Elder Brother," signifying respect and seniority. He was also widely referred to by his earlier, politically charged name, Thakin Nu. The title "Thakin," meaning "master" or "lord," was adopted by members of the Dobama Asiayone (We Burmans Association) during the colonial era to assert their rightful ownership of Burma and challenge British colonial dominance, underscoring his early commitment to Burmese self-determination.

The Architect of Independent Burma's First Government

U Nu achieved historic prominence as the very first Prime Minister of the Union of Burma, following the provisions of the country's foundational 1947 Constitution. This pivotal constitution laid the legal framework for Burma's transition from British colonial rule to full independence, which was officially declared on 4 January 1948. His leadership marked the dawn of a new era for the nation.

Three Distinct Terms as Prime Minister

U Nu served three non-consecutive terms as Prime Minister, navigating Burma through complex post-colonial challenges, including internal insurgencies and efforts at nation-building:

• First Term: From 4 January 1948, immediately upon Burma gaining independence, until 12 June 1956. During this period, he focused on consolidating the new state and implementing socialist policies.
• Second Term: Following a brief period out of office, he returned as Prime Minister on 28 February 1957, serving until 28 October 1958. This term was interrupted by political instability, leading to him inviting General Ne Win to form a military caretaker government to restore order.
• Third and Final Term: After the caretaker government concluded, U Nu resumed the premiership on 4 April 1960. His final tenure in office ended abruptly on 2 March 1962, when he was overthrown by a military coup led by General Ne Win, ushering in decades of military rule in Burma.

U Nu's Enduring Legacy

Despite the eventual military takeover, U Nu's legacy as the leader who guided Burma to independence and championed parliamentary democracy remains profound. His efforts to establish a multi-party system and address the diverse needs of Burma's ethnic groups during his time in office are still widely discussed by historians and political analysts.

Frequently Asked Questions about U Nu

When was U Nu born and when did he pass away?

U Nu was born on 25 May 1907 and passed away on 14 February 1995, living through a significant portion of Burma's 20th-century history.

Why was he known as Thakin Nu?

He was known as Thakin Nu due to his affiliation with the Dobama Asiayone (We Burmans Association), a nationalist group that adopted the "Thakin" title to symbolize Burmese ownership and challenge British colonial authority prior to independence.

What was the significance of the 1947 Constitution of the Union of Burma?

The 1947 Constitution was the foundational document that formally established Burma as an independent sovereign nation, laying the legal and political framework for its post-colonial governance. U Nu became its first Prime Minister under this constitution.

What led to the end of U Nu's terms as Prime Minister?

His second term ended due to internal political instability, leading to a temporary military caretaker government. His third and final term concluded with a military coup d'état led by General Ne Win in 1962, which effectively ended parliamentary democracy in Burma for many years.