Jacob Zuma

Born 1942 in KwaZulu-Natal province. Father died at the end of World War II, and mother became a domestic worker. Zuma did odd jobs to supplement family income and did not receive any formal schooling.

Politics

1958 Joins the African National Congress.

1963 Convicted of conspiring to overthrow the government, sentenced to 10 years imprisonment on Robben Island.

1975 Leaves South Africa and for the next 12 years is based in Swaziland and Mozambique, giving advice and leadership to the ANC.

1980s Serves on the ANC's political and military councils.

1990 Returns to South Africa after ban lifted on the ANC.

1997 Deputy president of the ANC.

1999 Executive deputy president of South Africa.

Yesterday Fired by President Thabo Mbeki.

SOURCES: African National Congress, news reports