Douglas Hurd

Date of Birth: March 8, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Biography

Douglas Richard Hurd, Baron Hurd of Westwell, was born on March 8, 1930, in Marlborough, Wiltshire, England. He is a distinguished British Conservative politician and author. Hurd was educated at the prestigious Eton College and later attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he studied history. His early career included a stint in the Diplomatic Service, where he served in various capacities in China, Italy, and the United Nations. In 1974, Hurd was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Mid Oxfordshire constituency, which later became Witney. He quickly rose through the ranks of the Conservative Party, holding several key positions including Minister for Europe, Home Secretary, and Foreign Secretary. Hurd was known for his pragmatic approach to politics and his diplomatic skills. He played a significant role in shaping British foreign policy during the final years of the Cold War and was a key figure in the negotiations that led to the Maastricht Treaty, which laid the foundation for the European Union. After retiring from active politics in 1997, Hurd was elevated to the peerage as Baron Hurd of Westwell. He has since authored numerous books, including political memoirs and novels. Hurd remains an influential voice in British politics and international affairs.

5 Interesting Facts about Douglas Hurd

1. Douglas Hurd was awarded the Companion of Honour in 1996 for his services to politics.

2. He served as the Foreign Secretary under Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and John Major from 1989 to 1995.

3. Hurd played a crucial role in the early stages of the Northern Ireland peace process.

4. He was a key architect of the Maastricht Treaty, which was signed in 1992.

5. Hurd is also a successful author, having written both political memoirs and novels.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Douglas Hurd

1. “Diplomacy is the art of letting someone else have your way.”

2. “The European Union is a means to balance our influence in the world, not a threat to our sovereignty.”

3. “Peace is not just the absence of war; it is the presence of justice.”

4. “In politics, as in life, persistence is more important than talent.”

5. “Leadership is about taking responsibility, not making excuses.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Douglas Hurd’s highest net worth is estimated to be around £2 million.

Children

Douglas Hurd has three children. His sons are Nick Hurd, who followed in his father’s footsteps and became a Conservative MP, and Thomas Hurd, a senior British diplomat. He also has a daughter, Jessica Hurd.