Born in Iizuka in 1940, Tarō Asō established a long career in the Liberal Democratic Party of Japan, eventually serving as the nation's Prime Minister from 2008 to 2009. His path through government and private enterprise involved a transition from managing the family mining interests to holding cabinet positions over several decades within the Japanese Diet.
Early Life and Education
The son of Takakichi and Kazuko Asō, he was raised within an influential business family with roots in coal mining. After initial studies at an elementary school operated by the Aso Group, he moved to the Gakushuin institution in Tokyo. He obtained a degree from Gakushuin University in 1963. His education also included periods at Stanford University and the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Business and Sporting Pursuits
Before his full commitment to politics, Asō spent time in Brazil and worked within the diamond mining sector in Sierra Leone during the 1970s. He led the Aso Mining Company as president from 1973 until 1979. Beyond his professional endeavors, he represented Japan as a member of the national shooting team at the 1976 Summer Olympics held in Montreal.
Political Ascension
Asō secured his first seat in the House of Representatives in 1979. Over the following years, he joined various factions, including the Kōchikai and the Shikōkai, while rising through ministerial ranks. He served as the Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications between 2003 and 2005 before becoming the Minister for Foreign Affairs. In 2008, he attained the premiership, serving for one year before the party lost the general election.
Cabinet Tenure and Economic Policy
Following the 2012 election victory for the Liberal Democratic Party, Asō returned to the Cabinet. He served as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance from 2012 through 2021, marking an extensive period of service in these roles. Throughout this tenure, he remained a prominent power broker within the party structure, continuing his involvement in the legislature.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940, Iizuka
- Education: London School of Economics and Political Science, Gakushuin University
- Prime Minister of Japan: 2008-2009
- Deputy Prime Minister: 2012-2021
- Minister of Finance: 2012-2021
- Olympic participation: 1976 Summer Olympics
- Religion: Catholicism
Questions readers ask
What ministerial roles did Tarō Asō hold?
He served as Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications.
Did Tarō Asō have a career outside of politics?
Yes, he worked as an entrepreneur, leading the Aso Mining Company and representing his family's diamond mining interests in Sierra Leone.
Achievements
- Educated at Gakushuin University, London School of Economics and Political Science and Stanford University
- Worked as politician, diplomat and entrepreneur
