Harold Wilson

Date of Birth: March 11, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: May 24, 1995

Biography

James Harold Wilson, Baron Wilson of Rievaulx, was a prominent British statesman who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for two non-consecutive terms, from 1964 to 1970 and again from 1974 to 1976. Born in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, Wilson was a member of the Labour Party and is remembered for his pragmatic approach to politics, which included efforts to modernize the British economy and society during a time of significant global and domestic change. Wilson’s early education took place at the Grammar School in Wirral, and he went on to study Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Jesus College, Oxford. He showed early promise in academia, becoming one of the youngest Oxford dons of the century before turning to politics. He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Ormskirk in 1945 and later represented the constituency of Huyton from 1950 until his retirement in 1983. During his time as Prime Minister, Wilson navigated complex issues such as the devaluation of the pound, the rise of the trade union movement, and the challenges of the Cold War. He is also credited with significant social reforms, including the liberalization of laws on censorship, divorce, abortion, and homosexuality, as well as the abolition of capital punishment. After retiring from active politics, Wilson was elevated to the House of Lords as Baron Wilson of Rievaulx. He passed away in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to British political life.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Wilson

1. Harold Wilson was the youngest Cabinet member of the 20th century when he was appointed President of the Board of Trade at age 31.

2. He was known for his love of cigars and iconic Gannex raincoats, which became symbolic of his political image.

3. Wilson was the first British Prime Minister to be educated at a state secondary school.

4. During his prime ministership, Wilson’s government passed the Race Relations Act 1965, which was the first legislation in the UK to make racial discrimination unlawful.

5. He was a keen amateur photographer and took a number of significant photographs, including of his meetings with international leaders.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Wilson

1. “A week is a long time in politics.”

2. “He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery.”

3. “I’m an optimist, but an optimist who carries a raincoat.”

4. “The Labour Party is a moral crusade or it is nothing.”

5. “This Party is a moral crusade or it is nothing.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Harold Wilson’s net worth was modest by today’s standards, reflecting the salary and allowances of a British Prime Minister, which would be estimated at around £100,000 in today’s money.

Children

Harold Wilson and his wife Mary Wilson (née Baldwin) had two sons: Robin Wilson, a mathematician and academic, and Giles Wilson, a teacher and author.