Who Is Lon Nol? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Lon Nol was born on November 13, 1913, making him 111 years old as of 2025. The influential Cambodian politician served as the 21st Prime Minister from 1970 until 1975, and he played a crucial role during a tumultuous period in Cambodian history. His legacy is one of both political ambition and historical complexity, as he was involved in the Cambodian Civil War and significant geopolitical shifts in Southeast Asia. For a comprehensive account of his life, visit Lon Nol - Wikipedia.
Occupation | Prime Ministers |
---|---|
Date of Birth | November 13, 1913 |
Age | 111 Years |
Birth Place | Kampong Leav District, Prey Veng Province, Cambodia, French Indochina |
Horoscope | Scorpio |
Country | Cambodia |
Popularity
Lon Nol's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Lon Nol's physical measurements are not widely documented, historical resources indicate that he was of average stature for his time. His legacy, however, is measured not in physical attributes but in the significant impact he had on Cambodian politics and society during the 20th century.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Lon Nol was married to [insert wife's name], and the couple had [insert number of children, if applicable]. His family life, though often overshadowed by his political career, remains an integral part of his story. During his time as Prime Minister, he had to navigate personal and political relationships amidst a backdrop of national turmoil.
As of 2025, it is important to note that Lon Nol passed away on November 17, 1985, and thus he does not have a current relationship status.
His father Lon Hin was the son of a Khmer Krom from Tay Ninh Province who later served as a district chief in Siem Reap and Kampong Thom, after making a name for himself 'pacifying' bandit groups in Prey Veng. His maternal grandfather was a Chinese immigrant from Fujian who later became the governor of Prey Veng.
Nol was educated in the relatively privileged surroundings of the Lycée Chasseloup-Laubat in Saigon, followed by the Cambodian Royal Military Academy.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, estimates of Lon Nol's net worth varied, but as a prominent political figure, it can be assumed that he had accumulated substantial wealth through both his political career and other investments. However, specific figures are hard to ascertain, especially with the context of a historical figure in a country that underwent major upheaval.
Career, Business, and Investments
Lon Nol's career is marked by his military service and rise to political power. Initially a French colonial officer, he transitioned into a prominent political figure after Cambodia gained independence. His leadership style was often characterized by his pro-American stance during the Vietnam War era, which shaped his policies and alliances. His government was marked by efforts to modernize the Cambodian military and economy.
His role in the Cambodian Civil War and eventual ousting by the Khmer Rouge significantly impacted his legacy. The 1975 takeover marked the end of his rule, and he spent his later years in exile, primarily in the United States.
Sihanouk later claimed that the 1970 coup against him was the result of an alliance between his longstanding enemy, exiled politician Son Ngoc Thanh and Sirik Matak, with CIA support and planning.
Although there are indications that Lon Nol approached the US during 1969 to gauge the likelihood of military support for a coup against Sihanouk, there is no concrete evidence of CIA involvement, though it remains possible some military intelligence agents may have had partial responsibility.
It seems likely that in setting in motion the events leading up to the coup, Lon Nol initially intended to strengthen his position against the North Vietnamese with the ultimate aim of preventing their troops (and those of the Viet Cong) from operating within Cambodian borders, and wished to apply pressure on Sihanouk to achieve this.
However, events rapidly developed far beyond the original plan, and with the encouragement of Sirik Matak – who wished to see Sihanouk deposed as Head of State – Lon Nol was ultimately to engineer Sihanouk's removal.
Social Network
Although Lon Nol is not active on social media due to his passing, his legacy continues to resonate. Various historical forums and communities on platforms like Facebook and Twitter discuss Cambodian history and the impact of figures like Lon Nol. Documentaries and articles about his life can be found on platforms like YouTube and academic websites, providing insights into his influence on Cambodian history.
Nol found employment with the French colonial civil service in 1937. He became a magistrate, and soon proved himself as an efficient enforcer of French rule against a series of anti-colonial disturbances in 1939. By 1946, he had risen to the post of Governor of Kratie Province.
He became an associate of King Norodom Sihanouk, and by the late 1940s, when he set up a right-wing, monarchist, pro-independence political group, was becoming increasingly involved in the developing Cambodian political scene. Joining the army in 1952, he carried out military operations against the Viet Minh.
Education
Lon Nol's educational background includes studies in law and politics, which laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in public service. He studied in France before returning to Cambodia, where he began his career as a public servant and eventually rose to the highest political office in the nation.