George Mitchell (Rhodesian politician) facts for kids

George Mitchell (born April 1, 1867 – died July 4, 1937) was an important political leader. He served as the Prime Minister of Southern Rhodesia for a short time. This was from July to September in 1933.

Early Life and Career

George Mitchell was born in Ayrshire, a place in the southwest of Scotland. When he was 22 years old, in 1889, he moved to South Africa. Six years later, in 1895, he moved again to Matabeleland. There, he worked as a manager for the Bank of Africa in the city of Bulawayo.

In 1901, he decided to leave the bank. He then became the General Manager of the Rhodesia Exploration and Development Company. This company worked on building up property in the region.

Political Journey

George Mitchell became very involved in politics. In 1911, he was elected as a Member of the Southern Rhodesian Legislative Council. He represented the Western District. This council was a group of people who helped make laws for Southern Rhodesia.

By 1918, Mitchell stopped working in business completely. He then focused all his time on politics. He was a strong supporter of the Rhodesia Party. He also believed in "responsible government" for the colony. This meant that Southern Rhodesia should have more control over its own affairs.

He was re-elected to the council in 1914 for the Bulawayo District. However, he left the council in 1920.

Becoming a Minister

In 1923, Southern Rhodesia was granted responsible government. This was a big step for the colony. Mitchell ran in the first election for the Southern Rhodesian Legislative Assembly in 1924. He tried to win the seat for Bulawayo South, but he was not successful that time.

He tried again in the 1928 election for the Gwanda seat, and this time he won! On November 1, 1930, he was given an important job. He became the Minister of Mines and Public Works in the government of Southern Rhodesia. Later, from May 19, 1932, he served as the Minister of Mines and Agriculture.

Prime Minister

In 1933, the leader at the time, Howard Moffat, resigned from his position. George Mitchell was then chosen to be the new leader. He decided to change the job title from "Premier" to "Prime Minister."

His time as Prime Minister was quite short. It lasted from July 5, 1933, until September 1933. His party, the Rhodesia Party, lost the general election that year. Mitchell even lost his own seat in the election. The new party in charge was the Reform Party, led by Godfrey Huggins.