Norodom Sihanouk: Former King of Cambodia Dies at 89

Norodom Sihanouk was the king of Cambodia. Born on October 31, 1922, in Phnom Penh, he became king in 1941 and led the country to independence from France in 1953.

He ruled in different roles for decades, including as head of state and prime minister. He was overthrown in 1970, allied with the Khmer Rouge, and was held under house arrest during their rule in the 1970s. He returned as king in 1993 and abdicated in 2004 in favor of his son Norodom Sihamoni.

He was also a filmmaker and composer. Sihanouk died of a heart attack in Beijing on October 15, 2012, at age 89.

Achievements: King of Cambodia (1941-1955, 1993-2004).

Birth: October 31, 1922 - Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Profession: King and politician.

Interesting Facts: He directed several films.