John G. Diefenbaker

Date of Birth: September 18, 1895

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: August 16, 1979

Biography

John George Diefenbaker was a prominent Canadian politician who served as the 13th Prime Minister of Canada from 1957 to 1963. Born in Neustadt, Ontario, he moved to Saskatchewan with his family at a young age. Diefenbaker was a lawyer by profession and became actively involved in politics, representing the Conservative Party. His tenure as Prime Minister is noted for several significant accomplishments, including the passage of the Canadian Bill of Rights, the appointment of the first female minister in Canadian history, and efforts to improve the welfare of Indigenous peoples. Diefenbaker was known for his charismatic oratory and populist approach, which earned him both admiration and criticism. After his tenure as Prime Minister, he continued to serve in the House of Commons until his death in 1979.

5 Interesting Facts about John G. Diefenbaker

1. Diefenbaker was the first Prime Minister to appoint a woman to the Canadian Cabinet.

2. He introduced the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960, which was the first federal human rights law in Canada.

3. Diefenbaker was a staunch advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples and appointed the first Indigenous person to the Senate.

4. He opposed the apartheid regime in South Africa and was instrumental in preventing South Africa’s re-entry into the Commonwealth.

5. Diefenbaker was known for his dramatic and powerful oratory skills, which earned him the nickname “The Chief.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John G. Diefenbaker

1. “Freedom is the right to be wrong, not the right to do wrong.”

2. “Parliament is more than procedure – it is the custodian of the nation’s freedom.”

3. “I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, and free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.”

4. “Everyone is against me – except the people!”

5. “The road of life is the road of the brave.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific figures for Diefenbaker’s net worth are not well-documented, it is known that he lived a modest lifestyle, and his wealth was not a significant aspect of his life or career.