Hewlett Johnson, born on January 25th, 1874 in England, was the son of a wire manufacturer from Kersal. He showed early promise in academics and went on to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Owens College in Manchester in 1894.
Johnson's true calling, however, was in the Church of England. He was ordained as a priest and went on to serve as the Dean of both Manchester and Canterbury during his lifetime. Known for his progressive views and social activism, Johnson became a prominent figure in the church.
One of Johnson's most controversial stances was his unwavering support of the Soviet Union and its allies. This earned him the nickname "The Red Dean of Canterbury". Despite facing criticism, Johnson remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued to advocate for cooperation with communist nations.
Johnson's dedication to promoting peace and understanding between nations did not go unnoticed. In 1950, he was awarded the prestigious Lenin Peace Prize, the Soviet Union's equivalent of the Nobel Peace Prize. This recognition solidified his reputation as a global peacemaker.
Despite the controversies surrounding his political beliefs, Hewlett Johnson left a lasting impact on the Church of England and the wider world. His commitment to social justice and international cooperation continues to inspire activists and religious leaders to this day.