John McEwen

John McEwans house in Chiltern

John McEwen 1930s

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John McEwen 1950

John McEwen Swearing In

McEwen And Gorton

Sir John McEwen (2)

John McEwen (29 March 1900 – 20 November 1980) was an Australian politician who served as the 18th Prime Minister of Australia. He was in office from 19 December 1967 to 10 January 1968, following the disappearance and presumed death of Harold Holt. McEwen was the leader of the Country Party, which later became the National Party of Australia, from 1958 to 1971. His brief tenure as Prime Minister was marked by his insistence that the Liberal Party of Australia should not choose a leader who was unacceptable to the Country Party, significantly influencing the selection of John Gorton as Holt's successor.

Early Life and Career

John McEwen was born in Chiltern, Victoria, to Australian-born parents. He left school at 13 and worked various jobs before acquiring a dairy farm in Stanhope. His early involvement in farmer's advocacy groups and local politics led to his election to the Australian House of Representatives in 1934 as the member for Echuca. McEwen's political career was primarily dedicated to the advancement of agricultural and rural interests, and he played a significant role in the development of Australia's trade policies, particularly in relation to primary industries.

Political Career

McEwen's political career spanned over three decades, during which he held several ministerial portfolios, including Minister for the Interior, Minister for Air, and Minister for Commerce and Agriculture. He was instrumental in establishing the Australian Wool Board and the Australian Wheat Board, aiming to stabilize prices and support Australian farmers. McEwen was a strong advocate for protective tariffs to shield Australian industries from overseas competition, a stance that sometimes put him at odds with his coalition partners in the Liberal Party.

As Deputy Prime Minister under Robert Menzies and later Harold Holt, McEwen's influence within the Australian government was significant, particularly in matters related to trade and agriculture. His brief period as Prime Minister came at a tumultuous time, following the sudden disappearance of Harold Holt. McEwen's leadership was marked by his determination to ensure stability and continuity in the government.

Legacy

John McEwen's legacy is closely associated with his advocacy for the agricultural sector and his role in shaping Australia's trade policies. He is remembered for his pragmatic approach to politics and his commitment to the interests of rural Australia. The "McEwenism" policy of protecting Australian industries through tariffs and subsidies had a lasting impact on the country's economic policies.

McEwen's tenure as Prime Minister, though brief, was a critical period that ensured the smooth transition of leadership within the Australian government. His insistence on a suitable successor to Harold Holt demonstrated his influence and commitment to the stability of the country's leadership.

Later Life and Death

After retiring from politics in 1971, McEwen lived a relatively private life. He passed away on 20 November 1980, leaving behind a significant legacy in Australian politics, particularly in the areas of agriculture and trade policy.