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 Australian statesman who served as the 21st Prime Minister of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Born in Kew, a suburb of Melbourne, Whitlam embarked on a career in law before turning to politics. He joined the Australian Labor Party (ALP) and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1952. Whitlam’s time as Prime Minister was marked by significant social and economic reforms, including the introduction of universal health care (Medibank), free university education, and substantial changes to family law and urban planning. Whitlam’s government is also noted for its foreign policy achievements, such as recognizing the People’s Republic of China and pulling Australian troops out of Vietnam. However, his term was abruptly ended by a controversial dismissal by the Governor-General, Sir John Kerr, in 1975, a moment that remains one of Australia’s most significant constitutional crises. After his political career, Whitlam remained active in public life, contributing to various organizations and continuing to advocate for social justice and political reform until his passing in 2014.

5 Interesting Facts about Gough Whitlam

1. Gough Whitlam is the only Australian Prime Minister to have been dismissed from office by the Governor-General.

2. Under his leadership, the voting age in Australia was lowered from 21 to 18.

3. Whitlam’s government abolished university fees, making tertiary education accessible to all Australians.

4. He was awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 1978.

5. Whitlam was an accomplished orator and authored several books on politics and public policy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gough Whitlam

1. “Well may we say ‘God save the Queen’, because nothing will save the Governor-General.”

2. “The punters know that the horse named Morality rarely gets past the post, whereas the nag named Self-Interest always runs a good race.”

3. “It’s time for a new government.”

4. “Maintaining any public support for the monarchy in the future is going to be very difficult.”

5. “I have never said that people should be comfortable with the decisions made by politicians. People should be comfortable with the democratic process.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gough Whitlam’s net worth was not publicly disclosed, but as a public servant and politician, his wealth was likely modest compared to business magnates.

Children

Gough Whitlam had four children with his wife, Margaret Whitlam: Antony, Nicholas, Stephen, and Catherine. Antony Whitlam became a judge, Nicholas Whitlam pursued a career in banking and business, Stephen Whitlam is known for his work in urban planning, and Catherine Dovey has been involved in various social causes.