Alexander Stuart (Australian politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Alexander Stuart
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Studio Portrait of Sir Alexander Stuart, c. 1882
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| 9th Premier of New South Wales | |
| In office 5 January 1883 – 7 October 1885 |
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| Governor | Lord Augustus Loftus |
| Preceded by | Henry Parkes |
| Succeeded by | George Dibbs |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 21 March 1824 Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Died | 16 June 1886 (aged 62) London, England |
| Spouse |
Christiana Eliza Wood
(m. 1853) |
Sir Alexander Stuart (21 March 1824 – 16 June 1886) was an important leader in Australia. He served as the Premier of New South Wales from 1883 to 1885. A Premier is like the head of the government for a state or territory.
Contents
Early Life and Moving to Australia
Alexander Stuart was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1824. He went to school at the Edinburgh Academy and studied at the University of Edinburgh. After his studies, he worked in business offices in Scotland. Later, he worked in Calcutta, India, for a trading and banking company.
In 1850, he moved to New Zealand. Then, in 1851, he arrived in Sydney, Australia. He tried his luck looking for gold in places like Ballarat and Bendigo, but he didn't find much.
Business Career
In 1852, Stuart returned to Sydney. He joined the Bank of New South Wales and quickly moved up the ranks. By 1854, he was the secretary and inspector of all the bank's branches. On 10 November 1853, he married Christiana Eliza Wood.
Later, in 1855, Stuart became a partner in a trading company called R. Towns and Company. He became well-known as a successful businessman in Sydney.
Entering Politics
Stuart was very involved in his local church, the Anglican church, from 1866. He was asked to run for parliament in 1874. That same year, he was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly for East Sydney. He promised to support public schools and expand railways.
In 1876, Stuart became the Colonial Treasurer, which is like the finance minister, in the government led by Sir John Robertson. He held this job until 1877.
In 1879, Stuart became the Agent-General in London. This role meant he represented New South Wales in the United Kingdom. However, he returned to Sydney in 1880.
Premier of New South Wales
Stuart was elected to parliament again in 1880, representing Illawarra. He became the leader of the opposition, which is the main group of politicians who are not in power.
In 1882, the government was defeated, and Sir Alexander Stuart became the Premier of New South Wales. He served from 5 January 1883 to 6 October 1885. During his time as Premier, he successfully passed an important law about land in 1884. He also passed laws about the civil service, fire brigades, and universities.
In 1884, Stuart became unwell. He resigned as Premier in October 1885. After this, he was appointed to the New South Wales Legislative Council, which is another part of the parliament.
In 1886, Stuart was chosen to be a special commissioner for an exhibition in London. Sadly, he passed away there. He was known for being a very honest and respected person in business and politics.
Honours
In 1885, Sir Alexander Stuart was made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). This is a special honour given by the British Crown.
