William McMahon

ModernPoliticianAustralia1908 — 1988

Australian PM defeated by Whitlam.

Compare William McMahon with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1908

Died

1988

Country

Australia

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)26

Influence (20%)46

Legacy (20%)35

Leadership (15%)38

Strategy (15%)52

Total Score40.0

William McMahon — Complete Timeline

1969 AD

Appointed Minister for External AffairsPolitical Action◆ Major

McMahon was appointed Minister for External Affairs in the Gorton government. He handled Australia's foreign relations, including the ongoing involvement in the Vietnam War and relations with the United States.

Foreign PolicyVietnam War

Impact: national

1971 AD

Became Prime Minister of AustraliaPolitical Action◆ Major

McMahon became Prime Minister on 10 March 1971 after John Gorton's resignation. He led the Liberal-Country Party coalition until the 1972 election.

Prime MinisterLiberal Leadership

Impact: national

1972 AD

Lost the 1972 Federal ElectionPolitical Action◆ Major

McMahon's government was defeated in the 1972 federal election by Gough Whitlam's Labor Party. This ended 23 years of Liberal-Country Party coalition rule and marked a significant political shift in Australia.

Election DefeatChange of Government

Impact: nationaldestructive