SAINT LAURENT, Louis Stephen (Saint Laurent Louis Stephen)

(1882-1973)
Born February 1, 1882 in Compton (Quebec) in a poor family. He graduated from the College of Saint Charles (Sherbrooke) and Laval University in Quebec. In 1905 received a law degree in 1914 became a professor of law at Laval University, combined his teaching with the practice of law. He was president of the Canadian Law Association (1930-1932). From 1941 to 1946 and in 1948 entered the Cabinet as Minister of Justice and Attorney General. In 1942 and 1945 entered Parliament, representing the Eastern Quebec. From 1946 to 1948 served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, represented Canada at international conferences and the UN. Promoted the adoption of Canada in NATO. In 1948 became leader of the Liberal Party, and November 15, 1948 was replaced by Mackenzie King as Prime Minister. During his reign, Newfoundland was formally annexed to Canada, Canadian military units were part of NATO forces in Europe and participated in combat in Korea. The Liberals won the elections in 1949 and 1953 with an overwhelming margin, and Saint Laurent remained head of government until June 1957. In 1960, withdrew from political activity and began legal practice. Died Saint-Laurent in Quebec July 25, 1973.