Ernest Bevin (1881 – 1951)

Labour politician and Union organiser Orphaned at eight, Ernest Bevin started work on the Bristol Docks at age 11. He joined the Dockers’ Union and was instrumental in setting up the Transport and General Workers’ Union. As Minister for Labour during the Second World War, he transformed Britain into a war economy. During his term as Foreign Secretary from 1945, he became one of the most important creators of the post-war world.

Dave Sivier, museum volunteer © People's History Museum, Manchester