description William Lyon Mackenzie King Overview
William Lyon Mackenzie King was a Canadian Liberal politician who served as prime minister in three non-consecutive periods: 1921-1926, 1926-1930, and 1935-1948. His combined time in office, about 22 years, is the longest of any Canadian prime minister. King led Canada through the economic crisis of the 1930s and most of the Second World War, so the entry is relevant to readers studying Canadian government, Liberal politics, and twentieth-century history.
help William Lyon Mackenzie King FAQ
How many times did William Lyon Mackenzie King serve as Canada's prime minister?
He served during three non-consecutive periods: 1921-1926, 1926-1930, and 1935-1948. His two earlier periods were separated by the Conservative government of R. B. Bennett.
Why is William Lyon Mackenzie King Canada's longest-serving prime minister?
His three periods in office add up to about 22 years, the longest combined tenure of any Canadian prime minister. He led the federal Liberal Party during those terms.
What role did Mackenzie King play during the Second World War?
King was prime minister when Canada entered the Second World War and remained in office throughout the wartime period. His government managed Canada's industrial, military, and political mobilization while balancing disagreements over conscription.
Which Canadian social programs are associated with Mackenzie King's government?
His governments helped establish national unemployment insurance in 1940 and family allowances in 1944. Those measures marked an important expansion of Canada's federal social-policy role during and after the war.
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