Julian Assange

About

Julian Assange is an Australian computer programmer and activist, best known as the founder of WikiLeaks, a non-profit media organization that publishes classified documents. Born on July 3, 1971, in Townsville, Queensland, Assange demonstrated a strong aptitude for computers from an early age. He became involved in hacking under the pseudonym "Mendax" and was charged with cybercrimes in 1991. However, he received a lenient sentence due to his youth and lack of malicious intent. Assange founded WikiLeaks in 2006 to promote transparency by releasing sensitive information. The organization has published numerous high-profile leaks, including documents related to the U.S. military and political campaigns. Assange's activities have been controversial, leading to his confinement in the Ecuadorian embassy in London from 2012 to 2019. He was arrested in 2019 and fought extradition to the U.S. until his release in 2024. Assange's work has significantly impacted global cybersecurity awareness and the debate on media transparency.