Date of Birth: August 4, 1942
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: August 13, 2005
Biography
David Russell Lange was a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1984 to 1989. He was born in Otahuhu, Auckland, and grew up in a working-class family. Lange attended the University of Auckland where he completed a law degree. He entered politics as a member of the Labour Party and was elected to Parliament in 1977. Lange is best known for his leadership during a period of significant economic and social reform in New Zealand. His government implemented policies known as “Rogernomics,” which were characterized by free-market economic reforms. Lange also made a significant impact on the international stage with his staunch anti-nuclear stance, which led to New Zealand becoming a nuclear-free zone. Lange resigned from the position of Prime Minister in 1989 but remained active in politics until his retirement in 1996. After leaving politics, he continued to be involved in public life as a commentator and writer. David Lange passed away in 2005 after a long battle with health issues.
5 Interesting Facts about David Lange
1. Lange was a skilled orator and is remembered for his powerful speeches, including his famous Oxford Union Debate in 1985 where he argued against nuclear weapons.
2. He was awarded the Right Livelihood Award in 2003 for his work in promoting peace and anti-nuclear policies.
3. Lange’s government introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in New Zealand.
4. He was known for his quick wit and humor, often using it to diffuse tense political situations.
5. Lange underwent a successful kidney transplant in 1989, which was donated by his sister.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Lange
1. “It is a small world, but I wouldn’t want to have to paint it.”
2. “New Zealanders can no more be immunized against the rest of the world than they can be vaccinated against the common cold.”
3. “I can smell the uranium on your breath.”
4. “To be a leader, you have to make people want to follow you, and nobody wants to follow someone who doesn’t know where he is going.”
5. “The only way you can serve your country is to be in tune with it.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
David Lange’s highest net worth is not widely documented, but as a public servant, his wealth was modest compared to private sector leaders.
Children
David Lange had three children: Roy Lange, Byron Lange, and Emily Lange.
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – David Lange](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Lange
2. [New Zealand History – David Lange](https://nzhistory.govt.nz/people/david-lange
4. [The Oxford Union Debate – David Lange](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvg1vF7rE8g
5. [Biography on NZ On Screen](https://www.nzonscreen.com/profile/david-lange