Alfred Deakin becomes Prime Minister of Australia for the third time.
Alfred Deakin was a pivotal figure in Australian political history, serving as the nation’s second Prime Minister and holding office three separate times between 1903 and 1910. A skilled orator, journalist, and lawyer, Deakin was instrumental in the movement toward Australian Federation and played a leading role in drafting the Constitution. As a member of the Protectionist Party, he advocated for policies that supported domestic industries through tariffs and economic development. Deakin’s governments introduced key social reforms, such as the establishment of the High Court of Australia and the expansion of immigration restrictions under the White Australia Policy, reflecting the values of the time. He was also known for his strong support of the Australian Navy and closer ties with the British Empire. Despite political instability and frequent shifts in parliamentary alliances, Deakin’s influence endured, and he is widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Australian governance.