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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:21:10

Gordon Brown

Former British Prime Minister
Former British Prime Minister

James Gordon Brown, a British politician, served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2007 to 2010. He was also Chancellor of the Exchequer under Tony Blair. Brown is known for his economic reforms and interventions during the 2007–2008 financial crisis.

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16
Gordon Brown's Eye Injury

Gordon Brown lost the sight of one eye in a school rugby accident at the age of 16.

1900
Gordon Brown captains the 1900 Yale football team

Gordon Brown served as the captain of the 1900 Yale football team, showcasing his leadership in sports.

1930
Gordon Brown (rugby league)

Gordon Brown, born in 1930, was an English rugby league footballer.

1931
Gordon H. Brown

Gordon H. Brown, born in 1931, is a New Zealand art historian.

1951-02-20
Gordon Brown born in Glasgow, Scotland

Gordon Brown, the future Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, was born on February 20, 1951, in Glasgow, Scotland.

1967
Gordon Brown Starts at Edinburgh University

Gordon Brown started at Edinburgh University at the age of 16, becoming the youngest fresher there since the war.

1972
Elected Rector of the University of Edinburgh

In 1972, Gordon Brown was elected as the Rector of the University of Edinburgh, serving until 1975.

1975
The Red Paper on Scotland

Gordon Brown edited 'The Red Paper on Scotland' in 1975, a significant publication discussing Scottish politics.

1979
1979 general election, Edinburgh South

Gordon Brown participated in the 1979 general election in the constituency of Edinburgh South.

1980
The Politics of Nationalism and Devolution

In 1980, Gordon Brown co-authored 'The Politics of Nationalism and Devolution', exploring political dynamics.

1981
Gordon Brown (Zimbabwean cricketer)

Gordon Brown, born in 1981, was a cricketer who played in the early 2000s.

1982
PhD on The Labour Party and Political Change in Scotland 1918–1929

In 1982, Gordon Brown completed a PhD on the political evolution in Scotland between 1918 and 1929.

1983
Gordon Brown elected as MP for Dunfermline East

In the 1983 General Election, Gordon Brown won the seat for Dunfermline East with a majority of 11,000 votes. This marked the beginning of his political career as a Member of Parliament.

1986
Maxton: A Biography

In 1986, a biography titled 'Maxton' was published, likely focusing on a notable figure.

1987
1987 general election, Dunfermline East

In the 1987 general election, Gordon Brown ran for office in the Dunfermline East constituency.

1989
Where There's Greed: Margaret Thatcher and the Betrayal of Britain's Future

In 1989, Gordon Brown contributed to 'Where There's Greed', a critique on Margaret Thatcher's policies.

1992
1992 general election, Dunfermline East

Gordon Brown participated in the 1992 general election representing Dunfermline East.

1993
Start of sustained economic growth period

Although Gordon Brown claimed to have overseen the longest period of sustained economic growth in UK history, part of this growth phase began under the preceding Conservative government led by John Major in 1993.

1994
John Smith: Life and Soul of the Party

Gordon Brown co-authored 'John Smith: Life and Soul of the Party' in 1994, likely a tribute to a political figure.

1995
Values, Visions and Voices: An Anthology of Socialism

In 1995, Gordon Brown co-edited 'Values, Visions and Voices', compiling socialist perspectives.

1996
Doctor of the University from Brunel University

In 1996, Gordon Brown received an honorary Doctor of the University (D.Univ.) from Brunel University.

1997-05-02
Gordon Brown becomes Chancellor of the Exchequer

Gordon Brown assumed the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer of the United Kingdom on May 2, 1997, after Labour's victory in the general election. He implemented major reforms in monetary and fiscal policies during his tenure.

1998
Brown's 'New Ambitions for Britain' Budget

Gordon Brown's 1998 budget aimed at achieving stability, enterprise, welfare reform, and strong public services, addressing long-standing economic weaknesses.

2000-08-03
Marriage to Sarah Macaulay

Gordon Brown married Sarah Macaulay in a private ceremony at his home in North Queensferry, Fife. They later had two sons together.

2001-12-28
Birth of daughter Jennifer Jane

Gordon Brown's daughter, Jennifer Jane, was born prematurely. Tragically, she passed away on 7 January 2002 due to a brain haemorrhage.

2003-10-17
Birth of son John Macaulay

Gordon Brown and Sarah Macaulay welcomed their son, John Macaulay, into the world.

2004-10
Blair's Announcement and Brown's Succession

In October 2004, Tony Blair announced he would not lead the Labour Party into a fourth general election, paving the way for Gordon Brown to succeed him as Prime Minister.

2005
Gleneagles Summit Agreement on Supporting Poorest Countries and Climate Change

In 2005, at the Gleneagles Summit, an agreement was announced to support the world’s poorest countries and address climate change. This initiative showcased a commitment to global justice and sustainable development.

2006-04-20
Brown's 'Green' View of Global Development

On April 20, 2006, Gordon Brown presented a 'Green' perspective on global development during a speech to the United Nations Ambassadors.

2006-07-18
Birth of son (James) Fraser

Gordon Brown and Sarah Macaulay's second son, (James) Fraser, was born.

2007-05-11
Launch of 'Gordon Brown for Britain' Campaign

On May 11, 2007, Gordon Brown launched his campaign to become the Prime Minister with the slogan 'Gordon Brown for Britain'. Tony Blair publicly supported his candidacy.

2007-05-16
Receives 313 Nominations for Leadership

On May 16, 2007, Gordon Brown received 313 nominations from Labour MPs, ensuring his victory in the leadership race.

2007-05-17
Working visit of Prime Minister Gordon Brown

On May 17, 2007, Prime Minister Gordon Brown had a working visit.

2007-06-11
Surprise Visit to Iraq and Meeting with Nouri al-Maliki

On June 11, 2007, Gordon Brown made an unexpected trip to Iraq where he held talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

2007-06-24
Blair hands over leadership of the Labour Party to Brown

On June 24, 2007, Tony Blair transferred the leadership of the Labour Party to Gordon Brown during a conference held in Manchester, England.

2007-06-27
Brown Becomes Prime Minister

On June 27, 2007, Gordon Brown officially became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, succeeding Tony Blair.

2007-07-01
Gordon Brown's Handling of Terrorist Attacks in London

On July 1, 2007, Gordon Brown receives credit for his handling of the failed terrorist attacks in London's West End and Glasgow airport.

2007-07-03
Constitutional Reforms Announcement

On July 3, 2007, Brown announced a series of constitutional reforms, including limits to the powers of the prime minister, extensions to the powers of Parliament, a consultation on a bill of rights, and a possible lowering of the minimum voting age.

2007-07-07
Gordon Brown Pledges Relief for UK Flooding

On July 7, 2007, Gordon Brown pledges £14 million in relief for Doncaster and Hull after some of the worst flooding in the UK in 60 years.

2007-07-11
Housing Policy Announcement

On July 11, 2007, Brown announced that housing would be at the top of his political agenda, promising the construction of three million new homes by 2020.

2007-07-29
Brown meets with US President George W. Bush

On July 29, 2007, Gordon Brown had his first official visit to the United States as Prime Minister and met with President George W. Bush at Camp David.

2007-08-03
Gordon Brown Chairs Emergency Meeting on Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak

On August 3, 2007, Gordon Brown rushes back from holiday to chair an emergency meeting on the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

2007-09-14
Northern Rock Crisis Grows During Gordon Brown's Premiership

On September 14, 2007, the crisis surrounding Northern Rock grows as investors queue to withdraw their savings during Gordon Brown's time as Prime Minister.

2007-09-24
Gordon Brown's Commitment to Full Employment at Labour Party Conference

On September 24, 2007, Gordon Brown commits to full employment and creating 'British jobs for British workers' in his first Labour party conference speech as Prime Minister.

2007-10-06
Decision Against Snap General Election

Despite speculation and pre-election promotion, Gordon Brown announced that there would be no snap general election in 2007. This decision was later seen as a costly mistake as his party's popularity declined in the following year.

2007-12-06
Labour's Plan to Extend Pre-Charge Detention Dropped by Gordon Brown

On December 6, 2007, Labour's plan to extend pre-charge detention to up to 42 days for terror suspects is dropped by Gordon Brown after a crushing defeat in the Commons.

2007-12-13
EU Reform Treaty Referendum Debate

On 13 December 2007, Brown's decision not to hold a referendum on the EU Reform Treaty sparked debates and criticisms from various parties, arguing for a public vote.

2008-01-24
Peter Hain Quits Cabinet During Gordon Brown's Premiership

On January 24, 2008, Peter Hain quits the cabinet after failing to declare substantial donations to his Labour deputy leadership bid in time during Gordon Brown's premiership.

2008-02-17
Nationalisation of Northern Rock Under Gordon Brown's Government

On February 17, 2008, Northern Rock is nationalised during Gordon Brown's time as Prime Minister.

2008-03-17
UK Inquiry into Iraq War

On 17 March 2008, Brown announced that the United Kingdom would hold an inquiry into the Iraq War.

2008-04-16
Working visit of Prime Minister Gordon Brown

Prime Minister Gordon Brown had a working visit during which specific details are not mentioned.

2008-05-01
Gordon Brown resigns as Labour leader

After Labour scored its lowest results in 40 years in the local elections, Gordon Brown resigned as Labour leader due to the party's poor performance.

2008-05-23
Meeting with the Dalai Lama

In May 2008, Gordon Brown meets with the Dalai Lama at the Archbishop of Canterbury's London residence. This meeting is condemned by China, stating that it interferes in their internal affairs and hurts the Chinese people's feelings.

2008-08-08
Brown's Absence at 2008 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony

On 8 August 2008, Brown did not attend the opening ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, but instead attended the closing ceremony on 24 August 2008.

2008-08-24
2008 Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony

Gordon Brown attended the closing ceremony of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, making a statement by his presence after not attending the opening ceremony.

2008-09-12
Rebellion against Gordon Brown's leadership

In September 2008, a rebellion against Gordon Brown's leadership within the Labour Party was sparked by MP Siobhain McDonagh calling for a discussion on Brown's position. Several Labour MPs, including McDonagh and Joan Ryan, expressed the need for a leadership election, leading to internal party turmoil.

2008-09-26
Working visit of Prime Minister Gordon Brown

Prime Minister Gordon Brown had a working visit on September 26, 2008, with specific details undisclosed.

2008-12-17
Announcement of British Troop Withdrawal from Iraq

In December 2008, Gordon Brown announces that British troops will withdraw from Iraq before June 2009. This decision marks a significant shift in the UK's military involvement in the region.

2009-03-02
Meeting with US President Barack Obama

In March 2009, he arrived in the United States for a week of meetings, including some with US President Barack Obama.

2009-04-24
Gurkha settlement rights decision

On 24 April 2009, the Brown government announced a decision on Gurkhas' rights to settle in the UK, facing criticism for applying criteria to Gurkha soldiers seeking British citizenship.

2009-06-04
James Purnell Resignation

On 4 June 2009, James Purnell resigned from the Cabinet, calling for Gordon Brown's resignation as Prime Minister. His resignation added to the pressure on Brown's leadership.

2009-06-15
Announcement of Iraq Inquiry

The Iraq Inquiry was announced on 15 June 2009 by Gordon Brown to investigate the UK's involvement in the Iraq War, initially planned to be held in camera.

2009-11-24
Open sessions of Iraq Inquiry begin

On 24 November 2009, the open sessions of the Iraq Inquiry commenced at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, being televised for public viewing.

2010-01-06
Call for Secret Ballot on Brown's Leadership

On 6 January 2010, Patricia Hewitt and Geoff Hoon jointly called for a secret ballot on the future of Gordon Brown's leadership. The call did not receive much support and was later referred to by Brown as a 'form of silliness'.

2010-03-05
Gordon Brown's appearance before Iraq Inquiry

On 5 March 2010, Gordon Brown appeared before the Iraq Inquiry, defending his belief in the war's justification and the necessity to deal with Iraq's breach of UN resolutions.

2010-03-06
Gordon Brown Visits British Troops in Afghanistan

On March 6, 2010, Gordon Brown visits British troops in Afghanistan and pledges to provide them with 200 new patrol vehicles that are more resistant to roadside bombs.

2010-05-06
Labour Party loses majority in British general election

In the British general election on May 6, 2010, the Labour Party, led by Gordon Brown, lost its majority in the House of Commons to the Conservatives. Despite no party achieving a majority, Brown resigned as both leader of the Labour Party and as prime minister.

2010-05-11
Gordon Brown resigns as Prime Minister

On May 11, 2010, Gordon Brown resigns as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after the general election results in a hung parliament. This marked the end of his tenure as the Prime Minister.

2010-05-13
Gordon Brown's Return to Parliament

On May 13, 2010, Gordon Brown made his first public appearance after resigning as Prime Minister and confirmed his intention to continue serving as a Labour backbencher in Parliament, representing his Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath constituency until 2015.

2011-04-22
Gordon Brown appointed as unpaid advisory role at World Economic Forum

Gordon Brown was announced to be taking on an unpaid advisory role at the World Economic Forum. This role would involve providing advice and guidance to the organization.

2011-07-11
The Guardian publishes allegations against The Sun newspaper

On July 11, 2011, The Guardian newspaper made claims that The Sun, owned by Rupert Murdoch, had unlawfully acquired information about Gordon Brown's son and released a story regarding the child's health issues. Brown expressed dismay over the extent of illegal activities and unethical methods used to access personal information, stating that the issue was being handled by the authorities.

2011-07-12
Brown accuses Sunday Times of illegal activities

On July 12, 2011, Gordon Brown accuses the Murdoch-owned Sunday Times newspaper of having criminal connections and claims that they illegally gathered details about his bank account, legal documents, and taxes.

2012-06-11
Appearance at Leveson Inquiry

Gave testimony at the Leveson Inquiry regarding interactions with The Sun newspaper, Murdoch, media rights versus citizen rights, and concerns with British politicians.

2014-12-01
Gordon Brown's Decision Not to Seek Re-election

On December 1, 2014, Gordon Brown announced that he would not be seeking re-election to Parliament. He stepped down at the general election in May 2015.

2015-12
Appointment to PIMCO Global Advisory Board

In December 2015, investment management firm PIMCO announced the retention of Gordon Brown, along with other prominent figures like Ben Bernanke and Jean-Claude Trichet, to establish a Global Advisory Board.

2017-11-07
Release of Gordon Brown's memoir 'My Life, Our Times'

Gordon Brown released his memoir titled 'My Life, Our Times'. The book likely covers his personal experiences and insights during his political career.

2018
Estimation of Gordon Brown's net worth

In 2018, Gordon Brown's net worth was estimated to be around £11 million.

2019-01
Gordon Brown joins Partners Group advisory council

In January 2019, The Wall Street Journal reports that Gordon Brown will be joining the advisory council of Partners Group, a private equity firm based in Switzerland.

2020-09
Gordon Brown co-authors letter on importance of EU funding in COVID-19 fight

Gordon Brown, along with other authors, penned a letter emphasizing the significance of EU funding in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. The letter was organized by Scientists for Labour.

2021-06-10
Publication of Gordon Brown's book 'Seven Ways to Change the World'

On June 10, 2021, Gordon Brown's book titled 'Seven Ways to Change the World' is published.

2022-12-05
Labour party’s Commission on the UK’s Future report publication

On December 5, 2022, the Labour party’s Commission on the UK’s Future, led by Brown, releases a report advocating significant reforms such as transferring political authority from the House of Lords to local governments.

2024-03-11
Gordon Brown emphasizes UK's need for economic growth

Gordon Brown highlighted the necessity for the UK to adopt a war footing approach to stimulate economic growth in March 2024.

2024-03-12
Gordon Brown calls for Treasury to break out of low growth

On March 12, 2024, Gordon Brown urged the Treasury to step out of its comfort zone to address the issue of low economic growth.

2024-03-19
Gordon Brown advocates for further Welsh devolution

In March 2024, Gordon Brown expressed his support for greater Welsh devolution, emphasizing the need for more autonomy.

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Gordon Brown
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