Zelman Cowen

Zelman Cowen

Zelman Cowen

Sir Zelman Cowen (7 October 1919 – 8 December 2011) was an Australian legal scholar and university administrator who served as the 19th Governor-General of Australia from 1977 to 1982. He was born in Melbourne, Victoria, and was educated at Scotch College and the University of Melbourne, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws. He later attended New College, Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, earning a Bachelor of Civil Law.

Early Life and Education

Zelman Cowen was born in Melbourne to a Jewish family. He attended Scotch College, where he excelled academically. He then went on to study at the University of Melbourne, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws degrees. His academic prowess earned him a Rhodes Scholarship, which allowed him to study at New College, Oxford, where he obtained a Bachelor of Civil Law.

Academic Career

After completing his studies at Oxford, Cowen returned to Australia and began his academic career. He held various academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Melbourne and later at the University of Queensland. He was also the Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England and the University of Queensland.

Governor-General of Australia

In 1977, Cowen was appointed as the Governor-General of Australia by Queen Elizabeth II, on the advice of Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser. His tenure as Governor-General was marked by his efforts to restore public confidence in the office following the controversial dismissal of the Whitlam Government by his predecessor, Sir John Kerr. Cowen's term lasted until 1982, and he was succeeded by Sir Ninian Stephen.

Later Life and Legacy

After his term as Governor-General, Cowen continued to contribute to public life and academia. He served on various boards and committees and was involved in numerous charitable activities. He was knighted in 1976 and received numerous other honors throughout his life, including being made a Companion of the Order of Australia.

Sir Zelman Cowen passed away on 8 December 2011. He is remembered for his significant contributions to Australian public life, academia, and his efforts to promote social cohesion and understanding.

Honors and Awards

• Knight Bachelor (1976)
• Companion of the Order of Australia
• Rhodes Scholar

See Also

• Governor-General of Australia
• University of Melbourne
• University of Queensland
• Rhodes Scholarship