 |
Euginia CharlesPolitician
Date of Birth: 15.05.1919
Country:  Dominica |
Content:
Biography of Eugenia Charles
Eugenia Charles was a politician and served as the Prime Minister of Dominica from July 21, 1980, to June 14, 1995. She was the first female Prime Minister in the Caribbean Basin countries and the first woman in North America to become Prime Minister after her party's victory in the elections.
Early Life and Education
Eugenia Charles received her education at the University of London and the University of Toronto. In the 1960s, she became involved in political activities, advocating for press freedom. In the early 1970s, Charles became one of the founders of the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) and its leader. In 1970, she was elected as a member of parliament, and in 1975, she became the leader of the opposition.
Political Career
The DFP's agenda was conservative but included support for social programs, fighting corruption, and promoting legal freedoms in the country. Soon after Dominica gained independence in 1979, the DFP, under Charles' leadership, won the parliamentary elections. Charles gained significant recognition in 1983 when, as the Chairperson of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, she supported the United States during the American invasion of Grenada and met with Ronald Reagan.
Ministerial Roles and Legacy
From 1980 to 1990, she also served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Due to her uncompromising stance, Charles earned the nickname "Iron Lady of the Caribbean." In 1995, Charles retired from all positions, and soon after, her party lost the elections. In 1992, Eugenia Charles was awarded a knighthood. She passed away in 2005 from postoperative complications. She did not have a family or children.
