George Leeke facts for kids

George Leeke (born April 2, 1881 – died March 30, 1939) was an important Irish nationalist politician. He worked to represent the interests of people in Ireland, especially those who wanted Ireland to be independent or united.

Early Life and Business

George Leeke was born in a place called Magilligan. His father, also named George Leeke, was a merchant, and his mother was Mary Lurting.

George Leeke went to school at St Columb's College. After his education, he became a businessman. He owned a hotel and also a fishery, which means he was involved in the business of catching or selling fish.

Political Career

George Leeke was very active in politics. He was a member of the Nationalist Party. This party worked for the rights of Irish people in Northern Ireland.

Local Government

Leeke was first elected to the Londonderry County Council. A County Council is a group of people who are elected to manage local services in a specific area, like roads, libraries, and other community needs.

Northern Ireland Parliament

In 1921, George Leeke was elected to the House of Commons of Northern Ireland. This was the main law-making body for Northern Ireland at the time. He won a seat representing the Londonderry area. Even though he was elected in 1921, he did not officially take his seat until 1926.

Later, in 1929, the way the election areas were set up changed. His original Londonderry seat was removed. However, Leeke was still successful. He won a new seat representing the Mid Londonderry area. He continued to hold this important position until he passed away in 1939.

Community Involvement

Besides his political work, George Leeke was also very involved in a group called the Ancient Order of Hibernians. This organization supports Irish culture and community.