Ernest Manning, born on September 20, 1908, in Saskatchewan, Canada, was the son of British immigrants. Growing up in a modest household, he learned the value of hard work and perseverance from a young age. Manning's thirst for knowledge led him to excel academically, and in 1927, he made history by becoming the first graduate of the Calgary Prophetic Bible Institute.
Manning's foray into politics began when he served in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta. His dedication and commitment to public service quickly caught the attention of the Social Credit Party, leading to his appointment as Premier of Alberta in 1943. Manning held this position for an impressive 25 years, making him one of the longest-serving premiers in Canadian history.
During his time as Premier, Manning implemented various social and economic reforms that had a lasting impact on Alberta. He was a staunch advocate for fiscal responsibility and believed in the power of individual initiative and free enterprise. Manning's leadership style was characterized by his unwavering integrity and dedication to serving the people of Alberta.
After retiring from politics in 1968, Manning founded a consulting company called Manning Consultants Limited. He continued to lend his expertise to various public and private sector organizations, providing valuable insights and guidance on a wide range of issues.
Manning's marriage to Muriel Preston resulted in two children, including his son Preston, who would go on to establish the Canadian Reform Party. Despite his busy schedule and demanding political career, Manning always made time for his family, instilling in them the same values of hard work and dedication that had guided him throughout his life.
Ernest Manning passed away on February 19, 1996, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, leadership, and dedication to public service that will be remembered for generations to come.