George Canning vs Harold Macmillan

Canning was appointed Foreign Secretary, a role he held until 1827. He pursued a policy of non-intervention in European affairs, recognized the independence of Latin American republics, and supported Greek independence from the Ottoman Empire.

As Foreign Secretary, Canning negotiated the Treaty of London with France and Russia, which demanded an armistice in the Greek War of Independence and offered mediation. This led to the eventual independence of Greece from the Ottoman Empire.

George Canning became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in April 1827, succeeding Lord Liverpool. His appointment was controversial due to his support for Catholic emancipation, leading several Tory ministers to resign.

Canning died on August 8, 1827, after only 119 days as Prime Minister, making his tenure the shortest in British history. His death was attributed to pneumonia or tuberculosis, and he was succeeded by Lord Goderich.

Canning advocated for the removal of legal restrictions on Roman Catholics in the United Kingdom. His stance caused a split in the Tory Party, with opponents like the Duke of Wellington refusing to serve under him.

Macmillan succeeded Anthony Eden as Prime Minister after the Suez Crisis. He led the Conservative Party to a landslide victory in the 1959 general election, consolidating his power.

Macmillan gave a speech in Bedford stating that Britons had 'never had it so good,' referring to post-war prosperity. The phrase became emblematic of his premiership and the era of rising living standards.

Macmillan's government signed the Treaty of Rome, establishing the European Economic Community (EEC). However, the UK did not join at this time, as Macmillan prioritized the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).

Macmillan delivered the 'Wind of Change' speech to the South African Parliament, acknowledging the rise of African nationalism and the inevitability of decolonization. This signaled Britain's shift away from empire.

The Profumo affair, a sex scandal involving War Minister John Profumo, damaged Macmillan's government. Macmillan's handling of the crisis was criticized, contributing to his resignation later that year.

Macmillan resigned as Prime Minister in October 1963, citing ill health. He was succeeded by Alec Douglas-Home. His resignation marked the end of a premiership defined by prosperity and decolonization.