Date of Birth: April 12, 1946
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Biography
George Islay MacNeill Robertson, Baron Robertson of Port Ellen, was born on April 12, 1946, in Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, Scotland. Known as Lord Robertson, he is a prominent British diplomat and Labour Party politician. He attended Dunoon Grammar School and later studied economics at the University of Dundee. Lord Robertson began his career in politics as a Labour Member of Parliament (MP) for Hamilton in 1978, a position he held until 1999. He was a staunch advocate for the modernization of the British armed forces and was instrumental in the Labour Party’s defense policy. In 1997, Robertson was appointed Defence Secretary under Prime Minister Tony Blair. His tenure saw significant reforms in the UK’s defense strategies and military restructuring. In 1999, he became the 10th Secretary-General of NATO, a position he held until 2003. During his NATO tenure, he played a crucial role in the alliance’s response to the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent military operations in Afghanistan. After his tenure at NATO, Robertson was elevated to the House of Lords as Baron Robertson of Port Ellen. He has continued to be an influential voice in international relations, security, and defense policy, contributing to various think tanks and international organizations.
5 Interesting Facts about Lord Robertson
1. Lord Robertson was the first Secretary-General of NATO to face the challenge of global terrorism post-9/11.
2. He played a key role in persuading European nations to increase their defense budgets and capabilities.
3. Robertson was knighted in 2004 and later ennobled as a life peer, becoming Baron Robertson of Port Ellen.
4. He has received numerous international honors, including the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom.
5. Lord Robertson is a keen supporter of Scottish independence, despite his Labour Party affiliations.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lord Robertson
1. “NATO is not just a military alliance; it’s a community of values.”
2. “The security of one is the security of all.”
3. “In an unpredictable world, we need strong alliances more than ever.”
4. “Defense is not a budget issue; it’s a security imperative.”
5. “We must adapt and evolve to face the new threats of the 21st century.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
The highest net worth achieved by Lord Robertson is estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Lord Robertson has three children: Malcolm Robertson, David Robertson, and Rachel Robertson.
Relevant Links
2. [NATO: Past Secretary Generals](https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/topics_50304.htm
3. [BBC: Profile of Lord Robertson](http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/3076809.stm
4. [The Guardian: George Robertson Articles](https://www.theguardian.com/profile/georgerobertson