Boris Johnson

Boris Johnson

Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson (born 19 June 1964) is a British politician, writer, and former journalist who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2019 to 2022. He has been a Member of Parliament (MP) for Uxbridge and South Ruislip since 2015, having previously been MP for Henley from 2001 to 2008. Johnson was also the Mayor of London from 2008 to 2016.

Early Life and Education

Boris Johnson was born in New York City, United States, to British parents. He was educated at the European School, Brussels I, Ashdown House, and Eton College. He went on to study Classics at Balliol College, Oxford, where he was elected president of the Oxford Union in 1986.

Journalism Career

After graduating, Johnson began his career in journalism. He worked at The Times but was dismissed for falsifying a quotation. He then joined The Daily Telegraph as a correspondent covering the European Community, and later became the paper's assistant editor. Johnson was also the editor of The Spectator from 1999 to 2005.

Political Career

Johnson was elected as the MP for Henley in the 2001 general election. During his time in Parliament, he served on the opposition front bench under Michael Howard and David Cameron. In 2008, he was elected Mayor of London, defeating the incumbent Ken Livingstone. As mayor, Johnson introduced the "Boris Bikes" cycle hire scheme and oversaw the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.

In 2015, Johnson returned to Parliament as the MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip. He was a prominent figure in the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 EU referendum, advocating for the UK's exit from the European Union.

Prime Minister

Johnson became Prime Minister in July 2019, succeeding Theresa May. His tenure was marked by the completion of the Brexit process, the COVID-19 pandemic, and various domestic policies. Johnson's government negotiated a new withdrawal agreement with the EU, which led to the UK's formal exit on 31 January 2020.

Personal Life

Johnson has been married three times and has several children. He is known for his distinctive personality and often controversial remarks. Outside politics, he has published several books, including works on Winston Churchill and Roman history.

Legacy

Johnson's premiership was characterized by significant political and social challenges, including the management of the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of Brexit. His leadership style and decisions have been the subject of both praise and criticism.

References

• "Boris Johnson". GOV.UK. Retrieved 2023-10-15.

External Links

• Boris Johnson MP at UK Parliament
• Boris Johnson at BBC News