Serving as the 13th Prime Minister of Canada from 1957 to 1963, John Diefenbaker broke the Progressive Conservative party's long electoral drought. Born in Neustadt in 1895, he emerged from the Canadian prairies to build a career as a lawyer and politician, eventually leading his party to three consecutive election victories during his tenure in Ottawa.
Early Education and Military Service
Raised in Saskatchewan after a 1903 move from Ontario, Diefenbaker attended Nutana Collegiate before enrolling at the University of Saskatchewan. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1915 and a Master of Arts in 1916. During World War I, he served as a lieutenant in the military before returning to his studies, becoming the first student to secure three degrees from the University of Saskatchewan upon receiving his law degree in 1919.
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Diefenbaker practiced law before entering federal politics. His parliamentary career spanned several decades, with terms in the House of Commons starting in 1940 and continuing intermittently through 1979. He gained the leadership of his party in 1956. As Prime Minister, his administration oversaw significant policy shifts and received various honors, including recognition as a Person of National Historic Significance.
Public Life and Recognition
Throughout his life, Diefenbaker held memberships in the Royal Society of Canada and the Orange Order. He received honorary doctorates from the University of British Columbia and Laval University, as well as the Companion of Honour. A Baptist, he remained active in public service until his death in Ottawa on August 16, 1979. His remains are interred at the Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker Centre for the Study of Canada.
Fast facts
- Born: 1895, Neustadt
- Died: 1979, Ottawa
- Prime Minister of Canada: 1957-1963
- Education: University of Saskatchewan College of Law
- Military rank: Lieutenant
- Religion: Baptist
- Citizenship: Canada
Questions readers ask
What was John Diefenbaker's profession before entering politics?
He worked as a lawyer.
Where is John Diefenbaker buried?
He is buried at the Right Honourable John G. Diefenbaker Centre for the Study of Canada.
