This Day in History: Shimon Peres Elected President of Israel

Shimon Peres was one of the most well-known and respected politicians in Israel. He served as a Member of Knesset for nearly 50 years, and for part of that time, he held various ministerial posts. He led the Labor Party for about 20 years.

Peres served twice as Israel's Prime Minister. His first term was from 1984 to 1986, following an election outcome that was inconclusive between him and Yitzhak Shamir, who was running for Prime Minister from the Likud party. Both decided on a rotation agreement, where Peres served as Prime Minister for two years, followed by Shamir for the next two. His second term was in 1995-96, lasting seven months, when he filled the position following the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. In the subsequent election, Benjamin Netanyahu was elected and replaced Peres after his short tenure.

Peres was a leading figure in the process that led to the Oslo Accords, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1994.

Shimon Peres was often referred to as someone who "doesn't know how to win," due to his many losses in elections for various positions, despite his significant public support. However, on the 27th of Sivan 5767, this changed, and Shimon Peres was elected as the ninth President of Israel. This achievement made him the only person to have served as both Prime Minister and President.

Peres served as President for 7 years, until 2014. About two years after completing his term, Peres passed away at the age of 93.