Ken Livingstone

Date of Birth: June 17, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Kenneth Robert Livingstone, commonly known as Ken Livingstone, is a prominent British politician who has been a significant figure in the UK’s political landscape for several decades. Born on June 17, 1945, in Lambeth, London, Livingstone’s early life was marked by an interest in politics and social issues. He attended Tulse Hill Comprehensive School and later trained as a teacher at the Philippa Fawcett Teacher Training College. Livingstone began his political career in the Labour Party and quickly rose through the ranks. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Brent East in 1987, serving until 2001. However, he is perhaps best known for his tenure as the first Mayor of London from 2000 to 2008. During his time as mayor, Livingstone implemented several progressive policies, including the introduction of the Congestion Charge, which aimed to reduce traffic congestion and pollution in central London. Known for his outspoken and often controversial views, Livingstone has also been involved in various social justice causes, including LGBTQ+ rights and anti-racism campaigns. Despite his contentious career, he remains a significant figure in British politics, admired by many for his dedication to progressive change.

5 Interesting Facts about Ken Livingstone

1. Ken Livingstone was expelled from the Labour Party in 2018 due to comments that were deemed anti-Semitic.

2. He was known as “Red Ken” due to his socialist views and policies.

3. Livingstone played a crucial role in the successful bid for London to host the 2012 Summer Olympics.

4. He authored a memoir titled “You Can’t Say That,” published in 2011.

5. He introduced the Oyster card system for public transportation in London.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ken Livingstone

1. “If voting changed anything, they’d abolish it.”

2. “Being a politician is a poor profession. Being a public servant is a noble one.”

3. “My proudest achievement as Mayor was bringing the Olympics to London.”

4. “You can’t please all of the people all of the time, and you shouldn’t try.”

5. “Politics is the art of achieving the maximum amount of freedom for individuals that is consistent with the maintenance of social order.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Ken Livingstone’s net worth was estimated to be around £1 million.

Children

Ken Livingstone has five children. He has two children with his wife Emma Beal, whom he married in 2009, and three other children from previous relationships.