Paddy Ashdown was born in New Delhi, India on February 27, 1941. His father was an officer in the British Indian Army, which meant that Ashdown spent his early childhood in various locations in Northern Ireland. However, the family eventually moved to England where Ashdown attended Bedford School.
Ashdown's political career began in the Royal Marines, where he served from 1959 to 1972. After leaving the military, he joined the Foreign Office and was posted to the British mission at the United Nations in Geneva. In 1976, he joined the UK's diplomatic service, working with the British mission to the United Nations in New York.
In 1983, Ashdown entered politics, running as the Liberal Party candidate in the Somerset constituency of Yeovil. He won the seat and became a Member of Parliament, serving until 2001. In 1988, he was elected leader of the Liberal Democrats and held the position until 1999.
During his time as leader of the Liberal Democrats, Ashdown focused on modernizing the party and increasing its influence in British politics. He was known for his strong stance on human rights and environmental issues.
Ashdown's dedication to public service was recognized with numerous national honors, including being appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire and a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St. Michael and St. George.
Paddy Ashdown married Jane Courtenay, and the couple had two children, Simon and Katharine. In addition to his political career, Ashdown was also an accomplished author, publishing several books including "Swords and Ploughshares" in 2008 and "Game of Spies" in 2016.
Ashdown's commitment to justice was evident in his participation as a witness for the prosecution at the trial of Yugoslavian President Slobodan Milosevic. His testimony was crucial in bringing the dictator to justice for war crimes.
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