Description:
(Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1976 to 1979)
James Callaghan, also known as the Baron Callaghan of Cardiff, was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1976 to 1979. He was also the only person to have occupied the four Great Offices of State—the Exchequer, the Home Office, the Foreign Office and that of the Prime Minister. One of the longest serving members of the House of Commons, he was known to have been an engaging personality and was a political ‘kahuna’. He began his career working as a tax inspector and slowly ascended the political ladder. He donned many roles - a volunteer with the Royal Navy, an Ordinary Seaman, a Lieutenant and then, a politician. During his tenure as the Chancellor of Exchequer, he introduced the important capital gains tax and helped stabilize the financial market in the country. After having faced a tough period during the Middle East crisis, he resigned as the Chancellor and later went on to become the Home Secretary. A strong advocator of the Labour-Trade Union Link, he was appointed as foreign secretary for his adept decision making skills and efficient management.
Birthday
March 27, 1912 (Aries)
Born In
England
City
Portsmouth, England
Died on
March 26, 2005
Spouse/Ex-
Audrey Callaghan
Parents
Children
Baroness Jay of Paddington, Margaret Jay
When did James Callaghan become Prime Minister of the United Kingdom?
James Callaghan became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on April 5, 1976.
What was James Callaghan's role in the Winter of Discontent?
James Callaghan was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during the Winter of Discontent in 1978-1979, a period marked by widespread strikes and labor unrest.
What was the "Callaghan Doctrine?"
The "Callaghan Doctrine" was a foreign policy approach proposed by James Callaghan that emphasized the need for détente, dialogue, and negotiation in international relations, particularly during the Cold War.
What was the outcome of the no-confidence motion against James Callaghan's government in 1979?
The no-confidence motion against James Callaghan's government in 1979 led to the fall of his government and triggered a general election in which Margaret Thatcher's Conservative Party came to power.
What was James Callaghan's stance on the European Economic Community (EEC)?
James Callaghan was in favor of the United Kingdom's membership in the European Economic Community (EEC), which later evolved into the European Union (EU), and supported closer European integration during his time as Prime Minister.