Happy birthday! Angela Merkel turns 72 today

  • By Lori Macatee
  • Berlin
  • Last updated on

The iconic and legendary politician turns 72 on Friday, Jul. 17, 2026.
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Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel is celebrating her 72nd birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, she is one of the most acclaimed politicians of her generation.

Popular politician Angela Merkel has always liked to keep a bit of herself hidden from view. At 72nd birthday, she remains a woman of many facets.

Merkel, a cultural icon

Born Angela Dorothea Merkel in Kasner on July 17, 1954, her career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in German history. Merkel's not just a great politician, she's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business woman. At this point in her career, there seems to be little Angela hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Angela Merkel as she promises more to come. After all, she's only 72.

Happy Birthday, Angela, you're the best!

Angela Merkel career in pictures

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