Godfrey Huggins was born on June 6, 1883 in England. He was the son of a British father and a South African mother, which gave him a unique perspective on colonialism and politics. Huggins grew up in a privileged household and was educated at some of the best schools in England.
After completing his education, Huggins decided to pursue a career in medicine. He studied at the prestigious St. Thomas' Hospital in London and eventually became a physician and surgeon. In 1911, Huggins moved to Southern Rhodesia to work in a hospital in Bulawayo, where he quickly gained a reputation for his medical skills.
However, Huggins was not content with just being a physician. He also had a keen interest in politics and quickly became involved in local government. In 1924, he was elected to the Southern Rhodesian Legislative Assembly, marking the beginning of his political career.
Godfrey Huggins rose through the ranks of the Southern Rhodesian political scene quickly. In 1933, he was appointed as the Prime Minister of Southern Rhodesia, a position he held until 1953. During his tenure, Huggins implemented various reforms and policies that aimed to improve the lives of the people of Southern Rhodesia.
One of Huggins' most significant achievements was the establishment of the Godfrey Huggins School of Medicine at the University of Rhodesia. This institution was named in his honor and continues to train new generations of doctors and healthcare professionals.
In 1921, Godfrey Huggins married Blanche Slatter, a woman from Pietermaritzburg. The couple had a happy and loving marriage, despite the challenges of Huggins' demanding career in politics.
Godfrey Huggins is remembered as a dedicated and influential politician who played a crucial role in shaping the history of Southern Rhodesia. His long tenure as Prime Minister and his commitment to public service have left a lasting impact on the country.
Although his record as the longest-serving Prime Minister in British Commonwealth history was eventually surpassed, Godfrey Huggins' contributions to Southern Rhodesia are still celebrated and honored to this day.
Godfrey Huggins passed away on May 8, 1971, but his legacy lives on through his work and the institutions he helped establish. He will always be remembered as a passionate advocate for the people of Southern Rhodesia and a dedicated public servant.