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José Antonio Ardanza facts for kids

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José Antonio Ardanza Garro
2011 Jose Antonio Ardanza.jpg
Lehendakari of the Basque Country
In office
26 January 1985 – 2 January 1999
Monarch Juan Carlos I
Vice President Javier García Egotxeaga
(1985–1987)
Ramón Jáuregui
(1987–1991)
Jon Imanol Azúa
(1991–1995)
Juan José Ibarretxe
(1995–1999)
Preceded by Carlos Garaikoetxea
Succeeded by Juan José Ibarretxe
Personal details
Born (1941-06-10)10 June 1941
Elorrio, Biscay, Spain
Died 8 April 2024(2024-04-08) (aged 82)
Political party PNV

José Antonio Ardanza Garro (born June 10, 1941 – died April 8, 2024) was an important Spanish politician. He became the second elected leader, known as the Lehendakari, of the Basque Country. This happened after the region gained more self-government through its Statute of Autonomy. He served as president from 1985 to 1999.

A Leader for the Basque Country

In 1985, the Basque Parliament chose Ardanza to be their new president. He stayed in this important role until 1999. During his time, he worked hard to continue building the region's self-government.

Developing the Region

Ardanza focused a lot on making the Basque Country better for everyone. He worked on improving the economy and social life. His goal was to modernize the region. He also wanted the Basque Country to have even more control over its own affairs.

Working for Peace

A big part of Ardanza's job was trying to bring peace to the region. He strongly spoke out against the violence caused by the group ETA. One of his major achievements was the Pact of Ajuria Enea. This was an agreement signed by almost all the political parties in the Basque Country. Its aim was to create a normal and peaceful political environment by stopping violence.

Modernizing the Basque Country

Under Ardanza's leadership, the Basque Country became much more modern. This helped the region grow economically and socially. Thanks to these changes, the people of the Basque Country enjoyed a good quality of life. Their wealth and well-being became similar to many other parts of Western Europe.

His Passing

José Antonio Ardanza passed away on April 8, 2024. He was 82 years old.

See also

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