Macmillan, Sir (Maurice) Harold

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Macmillan, Sir (Maurice) Harold (1894–1986) British statesman, prime minister (1957–63). Macmillan became a Conservative MP in 1924. He held a succession of cabinet posts, including minister of defence (1954–55) and chancellor of the exchequer (1955–57), before succeeding Anthony Eden as prime minister. Macmillan improved Anglo-American relations, and sought a rapprochement between Moscow and Washington. His attempt to lead Britain into the European Economic Community (EEC) faltered in the face of De Gaulle's opposition. Macmillan's campaign on the theme of domestic prosperity (“you've never had it so good”) won him a landslide victory in the 1959 elections. His government was quickly beset by recession and the Profumo scandal. Macmillan resigned on grounds of ill health, and was succeeded by Alec Douglas-Home. He became Earl of Stockton in 1984.

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Macmillan, Sir (Maurice) Harold

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