Lester Pearson: Politician and Public Servant Who Gave Canada a New Flag

Lester Bowles Pearson, also known as Mike Pearson, was the 12th Prime Minister of Canada, from 1963 to 1968. He was a prominent figure in Canadian politics and international diplomacy, having played a key role in the resolution of the Cuban Missile Crisis and in the creation of the Canadian flag. Pearson was also awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for his work in peacekeeping.

Lester B. Pearson - Politician and Public Servant Who Gave Canada A New Flag | Canadian History for Kids | True Canadian Heroes

by Professor Beaver

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	88 pages

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Early life and education

Pearson was born on April 23, 1897, in Newtonbrook, Ontario. He was the son of Edwin Arthur Pearson, a Methodist minister, and Annie Sarah Bowles. Pearson attended Uxbridge High School and then Victoria College at the University of Toronto, where he studied history and political science. After graduating from university, Pearson worked as a teacher and a journalist before entering politics.

Political career

Pearson began his political career in 1935, when he was elected as the Liberal Member of Parliament for Algoma East. He served in various cabinet positions under Prime Ministers William Lyon Mackenzie King and Louis St. Laurent, including Minister of External Affairs from 1948 to 1957. Pearson was a strong advocate for Canada's role in the United Nations and for international peacekeeping.

In 1957, Pearson was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in peacekeeping. He was the first Canadian to receive the Nobel Peace Prize and the only Canadian to receive the Nobel Prize in any field.

Pearson became Prime Minister of Canada in 1963. He led the Liberal Party to victory in the 1963 and 1965 federal elections. Pearson's government introduced a number of important social and economic reforms, including the Canada Pension Plan, the Canada Student Loans Program, and the Medical Care Act. Pearson also played a key role in the creation of the Canadian flag, which was adopted in 1965.

Pearson retired from politics in 1968. He died in Ottawa on December 27, 1972.

Legacy

Pearson is considered one of the most influential Canadian politicians of the 20th century. He is best known for his role in resolving the Cuban Missile Crisis, for his work in peacekeeping, and for his role in the creation of the Canadian flag. Pearson was a respected and admired figure in Canadian politics and international diplomacy, and his legacy continues to inspire Canadians today.

Lester B. Pearson - Politician and Public Servant Who Gave Canada A New Flag | Canadian History for Kids | True Canadian Heroes

by Professor Beaver

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	49302 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	88 pages

FREE