Michael Norman Manley

Michael Norman Manley 1924-97, prime minister of Jamaica (1972-80, 1989-92); son of Norman Manley . A leader of the socialist People's National party, he was first elected to parliament in 1967. Winning a landslide victory in 1972, he shifted Jamaican politics to the left, establishing close relations to Cuba, nationalizing industry, and denouncing U.S. imperialism. He was reelected in 1976, but in 1980 lost to conservative Edward Seaga . Manley was returned to power in 1989, this time leading a more moderate government and encouraging foreign investment. Following serious illness, he resigned in 1992.

Manley, Michael Norman ( ‘Joshua’ Manley) (b. 10 Dec. 1924, d. 6 Mar. 1997). Prime Minister of Jamaica 1972–80, 1989–92 Son of Norman Manley, he was born in St Andrew, and studied in Jamaica and at the London School of Economics. He worked for the BBC 1950–1 before returning to Jamaica to become a trade-union organizer. He became a senator (1962–7) before being elected into the Lower Chamber for the People's National Party (PNP). He succeeded his father as leader of the PNP in 1969, becoming Prime Minister in 1972. His socialist policies led the country into a deep crisis, which lost him the 1980 elections. He remained leader of his party, and returned it to victory in 1989, this time accepting the need for economic austerity. He retired due to ill health.