When did he live?
Winston Churchill was born on 30 November 1874. He died on 24 January 1965.
Why is he famous?
Churchill was twice Prime Minister of the UK, firstly from 1940 to 1945, then again from 1951 until 1955. His first stint as Prime Minister was during World War II. The legacy of winning World War II – although Churchill was never on the battlefield – is huge.
Churchill was also a famous orator, wit, and writer. His speech referred to as ‘We’ll fight them on the beaches’ remains one of the best known war-time speeches. His famous off-the-cuff remarks are also well-known.
Churchill is also the only Prime Minister to win a Nobel Prize for Literature.
His lifestyle – he was a famously heavy drinker – also helped to create a charismatic figure and the Churchill legend.
What was his mark on history?
As the inspiring leader of the UK during World War II, Churchill’s place in British history is secure. His speeches and style of leadership during the war even created a new word: ‘Churchillian’.
As well as being held in the utmost respect in the UK, where he is seen as a great national leader, Churchill is also popular outside the UK. For example, he was named an honorary citizen of the United States due to his war efforts.
In 2002 a vote by the British public named Winston Churchill the greatest Briton in history.
Notes
Churchill came from an aristocratic family: his father was the chancellor of the UK, and his grandfather was a duke. Churchill’s family are also connected to that of Princess Diana.
Churchill fought in the British army, seeing action in the second Boer War, India, and the Sudan. He was also a war correspondent.
Part of the reason Churchill became Prime Minister at the outbreak of World War II was that he was an early leader in speaking of the dangers of Nazi Germany.
