Ernest Manning

Born Sept. 20, 1908, at Carnduff, Sask.; died Feb. 19, 1996

Occupation: Radio minister, politician, author

Contribution: Ernest Manning was part of the Social Credit government that could not pay interest on the provincial debt in 1936 and then benefited from the oil boom in 1947. The provincial income grew five-fold between 1937 and 1951, allowing his government to run surplus budgets. Alberta’s longest serving premier, he led Social Credit to seven straight election victories between 1944 and 1967. In 1947, government began providing free medical care for seniors. Manning protected Alberta’s economic fortunes while espousing free enterprise. In 1970, he was appointed to the Senate. Honorary Chief Bull Shield of the Blood Indians, Manning was also the first Member of the Order of Excellence of Alberta.

Quote: “Over the years, I have been portrayed by newsmen and commentators as an enigma — reserved, dour, cold and void of emotions. I am happy to report to you that none of these afflictions have ever caused me any pain.”