Famous Armenian Leaders

Vazgen Sargsyan was a prominent Armenian military commander and politician who played a crucial role in the establishment and security of Armenia. He served as the Defence Minister and Prime Minister of Armenia, rising to prominence during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Known for his strong leadership and strategic military operations, Sargsyan was instrumental in the Armenian forces' control of Nagorno-Karabakh. Despite being criticized for undemocratic practices, he is widely regarded as a national hero for his contributions to Armenian independence and the founding of the Armenian Army.

Andranik Ozanian, known as General Andranik, was a prominent Armenian military commander and statesman, a leading figure in the Armenian national liberation movement. He fought against the Ottoman government and Kurdish irregulars, leading Armenian militias in defense of the Armenian peasantry in Western Armenia. He commanded Armenian volunteer battalions in the First Balkan War and World War I, capturing and governing traditional Armenian territories. Despite disagreements with the Armenian government, he continued fighting for Armenian independence and aiding Armenian refugees in Europe and the United States.

Anastas Ivanovich Mikoyan was a prominent Soviet politician and Bolshevik revolutionary who held various key positions within the Communist Party and the Soviet government. He navigated through the turbulent eras of Lenin, Stalin, Khrushchev, and Brezhnev, showcasing his political agility and survival skills. Mikoyan's career highlights include serving as Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, participating in the State Defense Committee during World War II, supporting de-Stalinization under Khrushchev, and playing a significant role in Soviet foreign policy, particularly in relations with the United States and Cuba.

Nikol Pashinyan is an Armenian politician and former journalist who founded his own newspaper in 1998. He has been a vocal critic of certain Armenian political figures and promoted closer relations with Turkey. Pashinyan played a key role in the 2008 post-election protests and was sentenced to prison for his involvement. He later distanced himself from his previous political allies, forming the party Civil Contract. Pashinyan led the 2018 Armenian revolution and has been serving as the prime minister since then, winning multiple elections despite facing criticism and protests, particularly related to his handling of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War.

Vardan Mamikonian was an Armenian military leader known for his role as the supreme commander of the Armenian armed forces. He led a rebellion against Sasanian Iran and fought in the Battle of Avarayr, where he and his comrades made a significant sacrifice. Vardan's professional life is immortalized in historical accounts and works of art, portraying him as a national hero and martyr. He is venerated in the Armenian Apostolic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Armenian Catholic Church for his leadership and bravery in defending Armenian interests.

Serzh Sargsyan is an Armenian politician who served as the third President of Armenia from 2008 to 2018. He also served twice as the Prime Minister of Armenia, first from 2007 to 2008 and then briefly in April 2018. Sargsyan won the 2008 presidential election and was re-elected in 2013. Despite a pledge not to become prime minister again, he was elected to the position in 2018, leading to his resignation after widespread protests. Currently, Sargsyan leads the Republican Party, Armenia's former ruling party.

Robert Sedraki Kocharyan is an Armenian politician who has held various key positions in both the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic and Armenia. He served as President of Nagorno-Karabakh and later as Prime Minister before becoming the second President of Armenia, serving two terms. During his presidency, the Armenian economy experienced significant growth, although he faced criticism for alleged corruption and the establishment of an oligarchic system. Kocharyan faced legal challenges related to the 2008 Armenian presidential election protests, but continued to be active in Armenian politics following the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War.

Hayk Marutyan is a versatile figure in Armenian entertainment and politics. He gained fame as part of the comedy duo "Hayko Mko" and co-produced popular comedy shows. Known as Kargin Hayko, he later starred in comedy films. Marutyan transitioned into civic activism, supporting political change and eventually becoming mayor of Yerevan. After leaving his initial party, he founded the New Power party. With a background in comedy and a foray into politics, Marutyan continues to make an impact in Armenian society.

Nubar Pasha was an influential Egyptian-Armenian politician who served as the first Prime Minister of Egypt. Throughout his career, he held the position of Prime Minister three times. His terms in office spanned several years, with his first term taking place between August 1878 and February 1879, followed by a second term from January 1884 to June 1888, and a final term from April 1894 to November 1895. Nubar Pasha's leadership and political acumen left a lasting impact on Egyptian governance during the late 19th century.

Mikhail Loris-Melikov was a distinguished Russian-Armenian statesman and military leader. He rose through the ranks to become a General of the Cavalry and Adjutant General of H. I. M. Retinue. Loris-Melikov played a key role in various political and administrative reforms during his career. He was known for his strategic thinking and leadership skills, which earned him a reputation as a capable and influential figure in the Russian Empire. Loris-Melikov's contributions left a lasting impact on the country's governance and military affairs.

Arpine Hovhannisyan is a prominent figure in Armenian politics and law, having served as the Minister of Justice and Vice President of the National Assembly. As the first female Justice Minister in Armenia, she has made significant contributions to the legal sector. Currently, she is an active member of the Chamber of Advocates, where she continues her professional endeavors. Despite her past affiliation with the Republican Party of Armenia, she is now independent of any political party, focusing on her legal career and professional activities.

Naira Zohrabyan is an Armenian politician known for her tenure as a member of the National Assembly for the Prosperous Armenia party. She ran for the position of Mayor of Yerevan in the 2018 Yerevan City Council election. Zohrabyan, although choosing not to participate in a televised debate, secured a second-place finish behind Hayk Marutyan. Throughout her professional career, she has been actively involved in political affairs and has represented her party in various capacities, demonstrating a commitment to public service and governance.

Levon Ter-Petrosyan is an Armenian politician and historian who served as the first president of Armenia from 1991 to 1998. He played a significant role in leading the Karabakh movement for the unification of Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. During his presidency, he navigated the First Nagorno-Karabakh War with Azerbaijan. Ter-Petrosyan resigned in 1998 due to disagreements within his government. He later made a political comeback in 2007, founded the Armenian National Congress in 2008, and has been actively involved in opposition politics in Armenia.

Andranik Markaryan was a prominent figure in Armenian politics, serving as the Prime Minister from 2000 until his death in 2007. A member of the Republican Party of Armenia, he took office following the tragic events involving the Sargsyan brothers. Markaryan played a significant role in leading the country during his tenure as Prime Minister, navigating various challenges and shaping Armenia's political landscape. His dedication to public service and leadership qualities made him a respected figure within the Armenian political sphere.

Gagik Tsarukyan is an Armenian businessman, politician, and former athlete. He is the founder and leader of the Prosperous Armenia political party and owns various large-scale businesses. Tsarukyan is known as one of the richest men in Armenia. He announced his return to politics in 2017, forming the parliamentary Tsarukyan Alliance. Tsarukyan has a background in sports, excelling in boxing, wrestling, and arm wrestling. He became world champion in arm-wrestling in 1996 and won the European championship in 1998. Tsarukyan also served as the president of Armenia's National Olympic Committee.

Vano Smbati Siradeghyan was an Armenian politician and writer known for his high-ranked positions in the 1990s. He served as Minister of Internal Affairs from 1992 to 1996 and later as the Mayor of Yerevan from 1996 to 1998. However, his career took a turn when he faced criminal charges following the resignation of President Levon Ter-Petrosyan in 1998. Siradeghyan disappeared in April 2000 and was wanted by Interpol until his death in 2021 at the age of 74.

Tigran Sargsyan is an Armenian political figure with a diverse professional background. He served as the Prime Minister of Armenia from 2008 to 2014, following a successful tenure as the Chairman of the Central Bank of Armenia from 1998 to 2008. After his time as prime minister, he took on roles as an ambassador to the United States from 2014 to 2016 and as the chairman of the board of the Eurasian Economic Commission from 2016 to 2020. His career reflects a commitment to public service and economic leadership.

Hayk Bzhishkian, also known as Guy Dmitrievich Guy and Gai Dmitrievich Gai, was a Soviet military commander of Armenian origin. He fought in the Russian Civil War and Polish-Soviet War, showcasing strategic prowess and leadership skills. Bzhishkian's professional life was marked by his dedication to the Soviet military, where he played a significant role in various conflicts. His contributions to the military were recognized for their impact on the outcomes of these wars, solidifying his reputation as a capable and respected commander.

Zaruhi Batoyan is an Armenian political figure, journalist, and disability rights activist. She has served as the former Minister of Labor and Social Affairs in the Second Pashinyan government. Throughout her professional life, she has been dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Batoyan's work in journalism has also contributed to raising awareness on important social issues within Armenia. Her career reflects a commitment to social justice, equality, and inclusivity.

Gurgen Egiazaryan was an Armenian civil servant and politician with a distinguished career. He served in key roles within the Ministry of Internal Affairs starting in 1976, showcasing his dedication to public service. Egiazaryan's contributions were significant, and he emerged as a prominent figure in the Armenian Parliament from 1999 to 2003. His tenure in various positions reflected his commitment to governance and policymaking, highlighting his expertise and influence in shaping important decisions for the country.

Georgy Khosroevich Shakhnazarov was a prominent Soviet politician and political scientist who played a crucial role as a close advisor to Mikhail Gorbachev during the latter's leadership. He advocated for reform and helped shape Gorbachev's policies to open up the Soviet system. Shakhnazarov was instrumental in key moments of Gorbachev's leadership, including efforts to push for political and social change. He also had a significant career in political science, contributing to the professionalization of the field in the later Soviet era.

Lena Nazaryan is an Armenian politician and member of the Armenian National Assembly. She serves as a board member of the Civil Contract Party and ran under the Way Out Alliance during the 2017 parliamentary election. Nazaryan previously worked as a journalist for Hetq and as the coordinator for election programs at the Armenian branch of Transparency International. In 2013, she was honored with the Freedom of Speech Award from the Asparez Journalists' Club. Nazaryan is known for her involvement in political activism and efforts to promote transparency and freedom of speech in Armenia.

Lilit Makunts is an Armenian philologist and politician who has held significant roles in the government of Armenia. She has served as the leader of the ruling My Step Alliance faction in the seventh National Assembly of Armenia and as Minister of Culture in the first cabinet of Nikol Pashinyan. Currently, she serves as the Armenian ambassador to the United States, representing her country on an international level. Through her various positions, Makunts has made notable contributions to the cultural and political landscape of Armenia.