David Lloyd George

Lloyd George succeeded H.H. Asquith as head of a coalition government during World War I. He formed a small War Cabinet to streamline decision-making. His leadership was marked by a more vigorous prosecution of the war effort.

Lloyd George overruled Admiralty opposition and mandated the use of merchant convoys escorted by warships. This dramatically reduced shipping losses to German U-boats, ensuring Britain's supply lines remained open and contributing to Allied victory.

Lloyd George's government enacted this act, which extended the vote to all men over 21 and women over 30 who met property qualifications. It tripled the electorate and was a major step toward universal suffrage in Britain.

Lloyd George was one of the 'Big Four' leaders at the Paris Peace Conference. He negotiated the Treaty of Versailles, which imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany. The treaty's terms were controversial and contributed to future instability.

Lloyd George resigned after the Conservative Party withdrew from his coalition government, following the Chanak Crisis and allegations of selling honors. His departure ended his wartime coalition and led to a Conservative government under Bonar Law.