Gough Whitlam

Date of Birth: July 11, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 21, 2014

Biography

Edward Gough Whitlam, commonly known as Gough Whitlam, was an influential Australian politician who served as the 21st Prime Minister of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Born into a politically active family, Whitlam grew up with a passion for public service. He served in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II, which instilled in him a strong sense of duty to his country. After the war, he completed his law degree and eventually entered politics, joining the Australian Labor Party (ALP). Whitlam’s tenure as Prime Minister is noted for its ambitious reform agenda, which included significant changes in healthcare, education, and foreign policy. His administration introduced universal healthcare through the establishment of Medibank (now Medicare), expanded access to higher education, and made strides in land rights for Indigenous Australians. Whitlam also took a strong stance on foreign policy, withdrawing Australian troops from Vietnam and establishing diplomatic relations with China. However, his time in office was also marked by economic challenges and political controversy, culminating in his unprecedented dismissal by the Governor-General Sir John Kerr in 1975. Despite this dramatic end to his prime ministership, Whitlam remains a pivotal figure in Australian history, known for his progressive policies and charismatic leadership. After leaving politics, he continued to contribute to public life through various academic and international roles until his death in 2014.

5 Interesting Facts about Gough Whitlam

1. Gough Whitlam was the first Australian Prime Minister to visit China, establishing diplomatic relations in 1972.

2. His government implemented the Racial Discrimination Act 1975, which aimed to promote equality and combat racial discrimination.

3. Whitlam was instrumental in the introduction of Australia’s first universal healthcare system, known as Medibank.

4. He was dismissed from office by the Governor-General Sir John Kerr, an event that remains one of the most controversial in Australian political history.

5. Whitlam was an accomplished author, publishing several books on politics and public policy after his retirement from active politics.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gough Whitlam

1. “It’s time for a new beginning, for an end to the stagnant, sterile, self-perpetuating oligarchy which has dominated Australia for so long.”

2. “The men and women of Australia deserve better than the tired, fearful policies of the past.”

3. “Maintain your rage and enthusiasm through the campaign for the election now to be held and until polling day.”

4. “Let me make quite clear that I am for abortion and, in these circumstances, I am for abortion on demand.”

5. “We were determined to have a new, more independent Australian foreign policy, and we certainly have achieved that.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gough Whitlam’s net worth was not a widely publicized aspect of his life, and thus specific figures are not available. His wealth primarily stemmed from his long career in public service and post-political engagements.

Children

Gough Whitlam and his wife, Margaret Whitlam, had four children: 1. Antony Whitlam – A lawyer and former judge. 2. Nicholas Whitlam – A businessman. 3. Stephen Whitlam – A diplomat. 4. Catherine Dovey – A public servant and artist.