John Swan (Bermudian politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir John Swan
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| 4th Premier of Bermuda | |
| In office 15 January 1982 – 25 August 1995 |
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| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Deputy | Clarence James (1983–1989) Ann Cartwright DeCouto (1989–1992) |
| Preceded by | David Gibbons |
| Succeeded by | David Saul |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 3, 1935 Bermuda |
| Political party | United Bermuda Party (1964–2011) One Bermuda Alliance (2011–present) |
Sir John William David Swan (born 3 July 1935) is a well-known former politician from Bermuda. He was a successful real estate developer before becoming the Premier of Bermuda, which is like the head of government, from 1982 to 1995.
Sir John Swan first became a member of Parliament in 1972. During his time as Premier, he helped Bermuda become an important place for international business. His government completed more than 20 big projects across the island.
Contents
Bermuda's Economy and Global Ties
Building a Strong Economy
In 1985, Sir John Swan led important talks with the United States. These talks resulted in a special agreement called a Tax Treaty. This agreement was very important for Bermuda's economy.
Boosting Insurance and Reinsurance
The Tax Treaty helped the insurance and reinsurance industries grow a lot in Bermuda. This means companies that help people and businesses protect themselves from financial risks found Bermuda a great place to set up.
High-Level Meetings for Bermuda
To make this treaty happen, Sir John and his team met with top officials in the U.S. government. This included the President, Vice-President, and other important leaders. These efforts helped create a strong and stable economy for Bermuda. They also helped build good infrastructure and clear rules for businesses.
Key Political Decisions
Independence Referendum
Sir John Swan believed that Bermuda should become fully independent from Britain. This meant Bermuda would make all its own decisions without Britain's help.
Public Vote and Resignation
In 1995, there was a special vote, called a referendum, to decide if Bermuda should become independent. Most people voted against it. After this, Sir John Swan resigned from his role as Premier.
Other Government Roles
Besides being Premier, Sir John Swan held several other important jobs. From 1976 to 1982, he was the Minister of Immigration and Labour. Before that, from 1975 to 1976, he was the Minister of Marine and Air Services. He also served as the Chairman of the Bermuda Hospitals Board.
Contributions to Business and Finance
Sir John was also a founding member of the Bermuda Monetary Authority, which helps manage Bermuda's money. He was also a director for the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce and the Bermuda Employers Council.
Awards and Recognition
Honored for Service
Sir John Swan made a big difference in Bermuda's international trade, politics, and property development. In 1990, Queen Elizabeth II made him a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE). This is a very high honor.
Other Special Awards
In 1986, he received the Medal of Distinction for his work helping others from the International Association of Lions Clubs. He also got the International Medal of Excellence from the Poor Richard Club in Philadelphia. He was also made a Senator of the Junior Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, he received the St. Paul's A.M.E. Outstanding Service Award.
Business Ventures and Education
The McDonald's Controversy
Sir John Swan wanted to open McDonald's restaurants in Bermuda. However, a law was created to stop this. His former Deputy Premier, Ann Cartwright DeCouto, introduced this law to Parliament.
The Ban and Its Aftermath
In 1996, the House of Assembly voted to ban McDonald's. But the Senate, another part of the government, rejected the ban. Sir John planned to challenge the law in court. The Premier at the time, David Saul, who had first approved Sir John's plans, resigned in 1997 because of the disagreement.
Current Role and Education
Today, Sir John Swan is the chairman of the Swan Group of Companies. He studied at West Virginia Wesleyan College and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He also has received honorary degrees from several colleges, including Bermuda College, West Virginia Wesleyan College, Atlantic Union College, and Morris Brown College.
