kids encyclopedia robot

Robert Ford (Canadian diplomat) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Robert Ford
Canadian Ambassador to Colombia
In office
1957–1958
Preceded by Wilfrid Bertram McCullough (Chargé d'Affaires)
Succeeded by Jean Morin
Canadian Ambassador to Yugoslavia
In office
1958–1961
Preceded by George Ignatieff
Succeeded by Gordon Gale Crean
Canadian Ambassador to Egypt
In office
1961–1964
Preceded by Arnold Cantwell Smith
Succeeded by Jean Chapdelaine
Canadian Ambassador to Sudan
In office
1961–1964
Succeeded by Jean Chapdelaine
Canadian Ambassador to the Soviet Union
In office
1964–1980
Preceded by Arnold Cantwell Smith
Succeeded by Geoffrey Pearson
Canadian Ambassador to Mongolia
In office
1974–1980
Succeeded by Geoffrey Pearson
Personal details
Born
Robert Arthur Douglas Ford

(1915-01-08)January 8, 1915
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Died April 12, 1998(1998-04-12) (aged 83)
Vichy, France
Occupation Diplomat, translator, poet

Robert Arthur Douglas Ford (January 8, 1915 – April 12, 1998) was a Canadian poet, translator, and diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in other nations. They help keep good relationships between countries.

Who Was Robert Ford?

Robert Ford was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. His father, Arthur Ford, was an important newspaper editor. He also led the University of Western Ontario.

Early Life and Education

Robert Ford studied history and English. He earned his first degree in 1937 from the University of Western Ontario. Later, in 1940, he received a master's degree in history from Cornell University.

A Career in Diplomacy

In 1940, Robert Ford started working for the Canadian government. He joined the Department of External Affairs. This department handles Canada's relationships with other countries.

Ambassador to Different Countries

Robert Ford became an ambassador for Canada in many places:

  • He was the Ambassador to Colombia from 1957 to 1959.
  • He served as Ambassador to Yugoslavia from 1959 to 1961.
  • From 1961 to 1963, he was Ambassador to the United Arab Republic.
  • His longest role was as Ambassador to the USSR (Soviet Union). He served there from 1964 to 1980.

Special Representative Role

In 1961, Robert Ford was a special representative for Canada. He attended the 1st Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Belgrade. This meeting brought together countries that did not want to take sides in the Cold War.

Awards and Recognition

In 1971, Robert Ford received a high honor. He was made a Companion of the Order of Canada. This award recognizes Canadians who have made a big difference to the country.

kids search engine
Robert Ford (Canadian diplomat) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.