John Howard

Date of Birth: July 26, 1939

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

John Winston Howard is an Australian statesman who served as the 25th Prime Minister of Australia from 1996 to 2007. Born in Sydney, Howard was educated at the University of Sydney, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree. He began his political career in 1974 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Bennelong. Howard quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Treasurer in the Fraser Government from 1977 to 1983. Howard’s tenure as Prime Minister is marked by significant economic reforms, including the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), and strong stances on national security and immigration. His leadership saw Australia support the United States in the War on Terror and participate in the Iraq War. Howard’s government also achieved substantial budget surpluses and low unemployment rates. After losing the 2007 election to Kevin Rudd, Howard retired from politics but remains an influential figure in the Liberal Party and Australian public life. He has written several books and frequently speaks at international forums.

5 Interesting Facts about John Howard

1. John Howard is the second-longest serving Australian Prime Minister after Sir Robert Menzies.

2. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush in 2009.

3. Howard survived an assassination attempt by a lone gunman in 1997.

4. He was a key figure in the introduction of stringent gun control laws in Australia following the Port Arthur massacre in 1996.

5. Howard is an avid cricketer and has been a long-time supporter of the Australian cricket team.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Howard

1. “The times will demand the best of us – all of us.”

2. “We will decide who comes to this country and the circumstances in which they come.”

3. “Leadership is not about being popular; it’s about being right and being strong.”

4. “The Australia I lead will be known for its values, its principles, and its courage.”

5. “Economic reform is not a one-off event but a continuous process.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Howard’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $5 million AUD.

Children

John Howard and his wife, Janette Parker, have three children: Melanie, Tim, and Richard Howard. All three children have pursued their own careers outside of the political spotlight.