Aneurin Bevan

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Aneurin Bevan (15 November 1897 – 6 July 1960) was a Welsh Labour Party politician who is best known for his role in the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. He served as the Minister of Health in the post-war Clement Attlee government from 1945 to 1951.

Early Life

Aneurin Bevan was born in Tredegar, Monmouthshire, Wales. He was the son of a coal miner and grew up in a working-class family. Bevan left school at the age of 13 to work in the local coal mines. His early experiences in the mining community greatly influenced his political views and commitment to social justice.

Political Career

Bevan joined the Independent Labour Party (ILP) in 1919 and became an active trade unionist. He was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ebbw Vale in 1929. Throughout his political career, Bevan was known for his passionate speeches and advocacy for the working class.

Minister of Health

In 1945, Bevan was appointed as the Minister of Health in the Clement Attlee government. He played a pivotal role in the creation of the National Health Service (NHS), which was established on 5 July 1948. The NHS provided free healthcare at the point of use, funded through taxation. Bevan's vision was to ensure that medical care was accessible to all, regardless of income.

Later Career

After resigning from the government in 1951 over the introduction of prescription charges, Bevan continued to be an influential figure in the Labour Party. He served as the Shadow Foreign Secretary from 1956 to 1959 and was Deputy Leader of the Labour Party from 1959 until his death in 1960.

Legacy

Aneurin Bevan is remembered as one of the most significant figures in British politics, particularly for his contribution to the establishment of the NHS. His legacy continues to influence debates on healthcare and social policy in the UK.

Related Pages

• National Health Service
• Clement Attlee
• Labour Party (UK)
• Ebbw Vale (UK Parliament constituency)
• Independent Labour Party