There is a rather interesting phenomenon when the activity of a specific individual plays an extremely important role in the development of an entire country or even a continent. Indeed, politicians have a significant influence on all areas of our lives. The history of London also features many famous political figures. This city combines ruling traditions with effective political decisions. One of those individuals who played a major role in the life of the whole of Great Britain was Harold Macmillan. What was his personal and professional life? What was his political activity? Learn more at london-yes.
Biography, education and the formation of political views
Harold Macmillan was born in London on February 10, 1894. His family was famous for Macmillan Publishers (the publishing company founded by Harold’s grandfather). The boy’s mother contributed to his education from an early age. Harold studied French every morning. His schedule also included playing sports. When the boy got a little older (about the age of six), he started to attend Mr Gladstone’s day school, focusing on classical Latin and Greek. Later, the boy attended Summer Fields School. In 1912, Harold Macmillan entered Balliol College where he formed his first political views. He joined many political societies. There, he had the opportunity to analyse the speeches of famous figures, learn about various trends in this field and also form his own point of view. His political opinions at that time could be characterised as a combination of moderate liberalism, conservatism and Fabian socialism.
Back then, life seemed carefree and beautiful. Harold was preparing for the exams, but the First World War destroyed the whole balance. Harold Macmillan immediately joined a volunteer service, and in January 1915, he received the rank of lieutenant. In general, he had to experience horrible and terrifying events. He took part in combat operations on the front line in France and was wounded three times during the war.
The main achievements in the political sphere and the position of Prime Minister
Harold Macmillan’s political career began in 1924. At that time, his activity was marked by both first successes and first failures. During that period, he was also engaged in writing his own works. However, the most important stage of his political career began in the 1940s. Then Harold Macmillan got the post of Parliamentary Secretary. Significant changes also took place after the Conservatives regained power in 1951. In the same year, Harold Macmillan became Minister of Housing and Local Government. Moreover, he managed to achieve the set goals a year earlier than planned. In 1954, he became the Minister of Defence. Later, Harold Macmillan served as Foreign Secretary.
One of the most important positions in his professional life was the post of Prime Minister, which he received in 1957. During his tenure, Great Britain experienced rapid economic development. He also devoted a lot of attention to the issue of nuclear weapons and their safe use. In particular, Harold Macmillan was one of the signatories of the Nuclear Test Ban. In general, the calm and balanced Prime Minister has gone down in history forever.