Herbert Stanley Morrison, Baron Morrison of Lambeth

1 portrait of Herbert Stanley Morrison, Baron Morrison of Lambeth

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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Herbert Stanley Morrison, Baron Morrison of Lambeth

by Howard Coster
print, 1953
9 1/2in. x 7 3/4in. (240 mm x 180 mm)
Given by the estate of Howard Coster, 1959
Photographs Collection
NPG x2048

Sitterback to top

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  • Howard Coster (1885-1959), Photographer. Artist or producer associated with 9349 portraits, Sitter in 5 portraits.

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Later images of Morrison in his role as the wise elder statesman,such as this one by Coster, reveal a change in his essential character from cocksure vigour to contemplative gravitas. This psychological shift is not explained alone by age, but also to a decline in his political fortunes. His tenure as Foreign Secretary, which began after Ernest Bevin's death in March 1951, was unsuccessful, marred by the infamous defection of spies to Russia and criticism that he was preoccupied by the Festival of Britain. His term of office came to an abrupt end with Labour's electoral defeat in October 1951.

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Current affairs

A combination of low pressure in the North Sea, hurricane force winds, and high tides result in the Great Flood of 1953. With no warning system many were trapped in their homes as 20-foot waves crashed on the coast; hundreds were killed at sea and on the east coast.
John Hunt's British Expedition conquers Everest. News of the achievement reached Britain on the day of Elizabeth's coronation.

Art and science

Frances Crick and James Watson discover the double helix structure of DNA. Uncovering DNA's chemical make-up revolutionised our understanding of the building blocks of life.
Ian Fleming publishes his first James Bond novel, Casino Royal.
Chad Varah founds 'The Samaritans' helpline.

International

Joseph Stalin dies four days after suffering a stroke. It has been suggested that Stalin was assassinated, as he was denied medical assistance for over a day after he was found; many suspect that he was poisoned. On his death Georgy Malenkov became leader of the Soviet Union.

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