Ramsay MacDonald

MacDonald became the first Labour Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in January 1924, leading a minority government. This marked the first time the Labour Party held power, though the government lasted only nine months before falling over the Campbell Case.

MacDonald's government formally recognized the Soviet Union and signed the Anglo-Soviet Trade Agreement. This diplomatic move aimed to normalize relations and expand trade, but was controversial and contributed to the fall of the government after the Zinoviev letter affair.

Facing a financial crisis and a split in the Labour cabinet, MacDonald formed a National Government with Conservatives and Liberals in August 1931. This action was seen as a betrayal by many in the Labour Party, leading to his expulsion from the party.

MacDonald led the National Government to a landslide victory in the 1931 general election, winning 554 seats. The Labour Party was reduced to 52 seats, its worst result. This gave the National Government a massive majority to implement austerity measures.

MacDonald resigned as Prime Minister in June 1935 due to declining health and was succeeded by Stanley Baldwin. He remained in the cabinet as Lord President of the Council until 1937, but his political influence had waned.