Edmund Barton

Date of Birth: January 18, 1849

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: January 7, 1920

Biography

Edmund Barton was an influential Australian politician who played a pivotal role in the federation of Australia. Born in Glebe, Sydney, Barton was a bright student and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Sydney. He initially worked as a barrister before entering politics, where he served in various roles including as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of New South Wales. Barton was a key figure in the movement towards Australian federation and became the country’s first Prime Minister in 1901, a position he held until 1903. He then served as a founding justice of the High Court of Australia until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Edmund Barton

1. Edmund Barton was the first Australian Prime Minister.

2. He played a crucial role in the drafting of the Australian Constitution.

3. Barton was knighted in 1902, becoming Sir Edmund Barton.

4. He was a founding justice of the High Court of Australia.

5. Barton was a passionate advocate for the White Australia Policy, which was aimed at restricting non-European immigration.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Edmund Barton

1. “For the first time we have a nation for a continent, and a continent for a nation.”

2. “I was born an Australian; I will die an Australian.”

3. “The doctrine of the equality of man was never intended to apply to the equality of the Englishman and the Chinaman.”

4. “To secure the blessings of peace and prosperity, we must ensure the unity of our nation.”

5. “The federal idea is that you will have a central power which will be supreme within its sphere, and strong local powers which will be supreme within their spheres.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Edmund Barton’s highest net worth was modest compared to modern standards, largely derived from his salary as a Prime Minister and later as a High Court judge. Given the era in which he lived, specific figures are not readily available.

Children

Edmund Barton and his wife, Jane Mason Ross, had six children: 1. Wilfrid Alexander Barton 2. Jean Alice Barton 3. Arnold Hubert Barton 4. Oswald Barton 5. Leila Stephanie Barton 6. Linley Jean Barton