700-year old history of men-only leadership broken
Baroness Betty Boothroyd is a British politician who made history by becoming the first woman to be elected Speaker of the House of Commons in the United Kingdom. She was born on October 8, 1929, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.
History-making Madam Speaker
Boothroyd grew raised in a working-class family and attended local schools before beginning her job as a secretary. She enlisted in the Women's Royal Air Force in 1948 and served for two years. She later worked as a dancer, appearing in performances in Paris and Germany.
Boothroyd began her political career in the Labour Party in the 1950s. She was elected to the London Borough of Brent Council in 1965 and later served as the borough's mayor in 1974. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 1973.
Boothroyd held several positions in Parliament, including Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons and Chairman of Ways and Means. She was elected Speaker of the House of Commons in 1992, becoming the first woman to hold that office in the House's 700-year history.
Boothroyd modernised the House of Commons as Speaker by adopting new technologies, including electronic voting, and promoting greater participation by women and ethnic minorities. She was noted for her no-nonsense style and strict adherence to House rules.
Boothroyd stepped down as Speaker in 2000 and was made a life peer, Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell. She remained politically active, serving as Chancellor of the Open University and a member of the House of Lords. Queen Elizabeth II bestowed the Order of Merit on her in 2011.
Baroness Betty Boothroyd's amazing political career and efforts have paved the path for future generations of women to enter politics and tear down gender inequality obstacles.
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