James Ramsay MacDonald (1924, 1929-35) - Prime Minister - Parliament

James Ramsay MacDonald was born in 1866 and was from a humble background. He attempted self-education but owing to bad health he had to give it up. Eventually though he was taken on as the clerk of a member of the House of Commons. MacDonald had a keen interest in politics and got involved in various socialist groups.

Eventually he was made secretary of the London Representation Committee. Like many socialists, MacDonald was also a pacifist and refused to support Britain’s involvement in the war. By 1924 MacDonald had become leader of the opposition in the House of Commons. He continued with his policy of presenting the Labour Party as a moderate force in politics and refused to support the 1926 General Strike. His moderate views once again made him Prime Minister but the election of the Labour Party coincided with the economic depression.

When MacDonald proposed changes to help the growing problem of economic unrest and unemployment, most of his cabinet voted against these – leaving MacDonald angry and he resigned. He was persuaded to form a new government and continue, which he did so until he was gently eased from power in 1935.

Ramsay MacDonald on his opposition to Britain’s involvement in the First World War – 3rd August 1914:

“There has been no crime committed by statesmen of this character without those statesman appealing to the nations' honour. We fought the Crimean War because of our honour. We rushed to South Africa because of out honour. The Right Hon. Gentleman (Sir Edward Grey) is appealing to us today because of our honour. What is the use of talking about coming to the aid of Belgium, when, as a matter of fact, you are engaging in a whole European War which is now going to leave the map of Europe in the position it is in now?”

"The League of Nations grows in moral courage. Its frown will soon be more dreaded than a nation's arms, and when that happens you and I shall have security and peace"

"We hear war called murder. It is not: it is suicide"

"If God were to come to me and say 'Ramsay, would you rather be a country gentleman than a prime minister?' I should reply, 'Please God, a country gentleman'"