Michael Joseph Savage

Michael Joseph Savage was a prominent New Zealand politician who served as the country’s first Labour Prime Minister from 1935 until his death in 1940. He is best known for implementing social welfare policies that established the foundation of New Zealand’s modern welfare state, including free hospital treatment, increased unemployment benefits, and improved housing. Savage’s leadership helped reduce poverty and inequality, earning him lasting respect as a champion of social justice. His tenure marked a significant shift towards government intervention to support citizens’ well-being, shaping New Zealand’s social policies for generations to come.