Simeon Daniel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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Simeon Daniel
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| 1st Premier of Nevis | |
| In office 19 September 1983 – 2 June 1992 |
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| Preceded by | Office created |
| Succeeded by | Vance Amory |
| Leader of the Nevis Reformation Party | |
| In office 1970–1992 |
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| Preceded by | Party created |
| Succeeded by | Joseph Parry |
| Minister of Finance of Saint Kitts and Nevis | |
| In office February 1980 – 1983 |
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| Prime Minister | Kennedy Simmonds |
| Preceded by | Charles E. Mills |
| Succeeded by | Richard Llewellyn Caines |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 22 August 1934 Barnes Ghaut, Saint Thomas Lowland Parish, Nevis |
| Died | 27 May 2012 (aged 77) |
| Political party | Nevis Reformation Party |
| Spouse | Lady Sheila Daniel |
| Children | Janice Daniel-Hodge Deon Daniel Adrian Daniel Susan Clarke Ingrid Farrell Clear Jones |
| Alma mater | Inner Temple of the Inns of Court in London |
Simeon Daniel (born August 22, 1934 – died May 27, 2012) was a very important leader for the island of Nevis. He became the first ever Premier of Nevis, which is like being the head of the government for the island.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Simeon Daniel was born in Barnes Ghaut Village in Saint Thomas Lowland Parish, Nevis. His parents were Joseph and Melvina Daniel. He went to St. Thomas’ Government Elementary School in Nevis for his early education.
After school, he started working as a Pupil Teacher in 1950. He earned his Leeward Island Teachers’ Certificate in 1957.
Journey to Law and Politics
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1962, Simeon Daniel began studying law in England. While he was a student, he also worked as a clerk for the London County Council. He later became an executive officer there.
He continued his law studies at the Inner Temple in London. This is a famous place where lawyers are trained. In 1966, he officially became a Barrister at Law, which means he was qualified to be a lawyer.
Returning to Nevis
Simeon Daniel came back to Nevis in 1966. He worked for the government in the Ministry of External Affairs. He was also allowed to practice law in Nevis that same year.
Later, he became a Crown Counsel, helping the government with legal matters. He also served as a Registrar for the Supreme Court and a Magistrate, which is like a judge. In 1969, he started his own private law practice.
Starting a Political Party
In 1970, Simeon Daniel helped create a new political group called the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP). This party focused on the needs and future of Nevis.
He was the Chairman of the Local Council from 1972 to 1980. He was also elected to the National Assembly in 1975 and 1980. The National Assembly is where laws are made for the country.
Leading Nevis
Minister and Premier
In 1980, the Nevis Reformation Party joined with another party to form a government. Simeon Daniel became the Minister of Finance for both St. Kitts and Nevis. This meant he was in charge of the country's money.
A very important achievement for him was gaining "Home Rule" for Nevis in September 1983. Home Rule meant that Nevis would have more power to manage its own affairs. This was part of the country's Independence Constitution.
Simeon Daniel became the first Premier of Nevis on September 19, 1983, which was Independence Day. He served as Premier until June 2, 1992. After him, Vance Amory became the Premier. Simeon Daniel retired from politics in 1992.
Other Achievements
Beyond politics, Simeon Daniel also helped establish the Bank of Nevis Ltd. in 1985. This bank was important for the island's economy.
He also founded a law firm called Daniel, Brantley & Associates. This firm helps many businesses and people with legal issues.
Simeon Daniel passed away on May 27, 2012. He was given a special burial with full military honors.
Awards and Recognition
Simeon Daniel received several honors for his contributions:
- In 1987, he was given an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
- He also received the Albert Einstein Bronze Medal for Peace in 1987.
- He was recognized for being a founder and supporter of the Bank of Nevis Ltd.
- On December 16, 2013, he was named a National Hero of St. Kitts and Nevis. This is the highest honor a person can receive in the country.
