Noor Hassanali facts for kids

Noor Mohamed Hassanali (born August 13, 1918 – died August 25, 2006) was the second President of Trinidad and Tobago. He served as president from 1987 to 1997. Before becoming president, he was a high-court judge.

Noor Hassanali made history in several ways. He was the first person of Indian descent to be president. He was also the first Muslim to hold this important office. In fact, he was the first Muslim head of state in all of the Americas.

During his time as president, a serious event happened in 1990. A group tried to take over the government. They attacked the police headquarters and took the prime minister and his team hostage. President Hassanali was visiting London at the time. He stayed there until the government was back in control. When he returned, he helped calm the people and bring back order. His role as president was mostly ceremonial, meaning he represented the country. He worked hard to bring different groups of people together and to help political parties agree.

Early Life and Education

Noor Hassanali was born in San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago. He was the sixth of seven children in a Muslim family of Indian background. He went to Corinth Canadian Mission Primary School and then to Naparima College.

After finishing college, he taught at Naparima from 1938 to 1943. In 1943, he traveled to Canada. There, he studied at the University of Toronto.

Becoming President

People often described Noor Hassanali as a very fair, calm, and respected leader. When he became president in 1987, many said he was a person with excellent qualities. They noted his honesty and humble nature.

As a Muslim, President Hassanali chose not to serve alcoholic drinks at President's House. This decision was not seen as a problem by the public. Even though the Prime Minister, A. N. R. Robinson, had some thoughts about it, it was widely accepted.

Noor Hassanali took over from acting president Ellis Clarke. After his two terms, A. N. R. Robinson became the next president in 1997.

Later Years and Legacy

Noor Hassanali passed away on August 25, 2006, at his home in Westmoorings, Trinidad and Tobago. He was 88 years old. He had been dealing with high blood pressure for about a year.

He was buried later that day, following Islamic traditions. His burial took place in the Western Cemetery in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago.