When Churchill died, President Eisenhower paid him a very warm tribute. With reference to the Americans and British that had endured World War 2 Eisenhower said of Churchill:
“To those men Winston Churchill was Britain—he was the embodiment of British defiance to threat, her courage in adversity, her calmness in danger, her moderation in success. Among the Allies his name was spoken with respect, and admiration and affection. Although they loved to chuckle at his foibles, they knew he was a staunch friend. They felt his inspirational leadership. They counted him a fighter in their ranks“.
That short extract from Eisenhower’s eulogy provides us with an excellent snapshot of Churchill’s legacy. Over time he has become a very controversial figure; a situation that any Brit celebrating on VE Day in 1945 could never have imagined. In May 1945 Churchill’s opinion poll approval rating was at a whopping 83% which is a perfect reflection of how the general population felt about him at that time and the enormity of their gratitude for his contribution to ending the war and also ensuring that the United Kingdom was so well defended between 1939 and 1945.
Even though his political party (the Conservatives) lost their seat in Parliament in the July 1945 general election the reputation that he had earned throughout the Second World War meant that he had respect the world over and many important people still wanted to hear his opinions and views. So, even though he had to step down as Prime Minister and become Leader of the Opposition he continued to have significant influence on world politics and policy.
The International Churchill Society (ICS) was formed soon after Churchill’s death and their mission is to preserve his significant legacy and educate the world about his life and achievements.
Here are our online multiple choice Winston Churchill trivia quiz questions …
