David Blunkett (b.1947) is a British politician known for his tenure as Home Secretary (2001–04) and Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1997–2001) under Prime Minister Tony Blair. His career focused on education reform, social welfare, and national security.
Born in Sheffield, England, Blunkett was blind from birth and grew up in poverty after his father’s death in an industrial accident. He attended schools for the blind before earning a politics degree from the University of Sheffield. His political career began in 1970 when he became Sheffield’s youngest city councillor, later serving as Sheffield City Council Leader (1980–87.)
Elected to Parliament (1987,) Blunkett played a key role in Labour’s modernization, advocating education reform. As Education Secretary, he introduced literacy and numeracy hours. As Home Secretary, he oversaw anti-terrorism legislation and immigration policies following 9/11.
His works include On a Clear Day (1995,) a memoir on overcoming adversity; The Blunkett Tapes: My Life in the Bear Pit (2006,) detailing his political career; and In Defence of Politics (2011,) discussing democracy and governance.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by David Blunkett
Strengthening our identity is one way or reinforcing people’s confidence and sense of citizenship and well-being.
—David Blunkett
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