PRIME MINISTER ROBERT J.L. "BOB" HAWKE (AUSTRALIA) - AUTOGRAPHED SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH - HFSID 206475

ROBERT JAMES LEE "BOB" HAWKE
Photograph of Australia's 23rd Prime Minister, signed to a fan (4x7)
Inscribed photograph signed: "To Rodney/Best Wishes/Bob Hawke", in black felt tip, Color 4x7. Robert James Lee "Bob" Hawke (b. 1929) was the 23rd Prime Minister of Australia from 1983 to 1991, previously serving in the House of Representatives. The nephew of Albert Hawke, Premier of Western Australia, Robert was steered by his parents at an early age towards a political career, with 15-year old Robert himself predicting his eventual career as Prime Minister. Working his way through several important positions (President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, Leader of the Labor Party, Member of Parliament), Hawke was elected in 1983, and focused his efforts on reforms such as dismantling the tariff system, privatizing state sector industries, reintroducing Medicare, boosting school retention, and improving social security provisions. Hawke was also notable for his work in public health campaigns regarding AIDS, and relations with Aboriginal people in Australia. After retiring in 1991, he pursued several business ventures, and has received several honors for his time as Prime Minister (Grand Companion of the Order of Logohu, Life membership of the Australian Labor Party, various honorary doctorates). Ink notes (unknown hand) on verso. Edges slightly frayed. Corners slightly worn. Fine condition.