The Most Hon. Edward Phillip George Seaga, ON, P.C., LL.D. (Hon.)
The Most Hon. Edward Phillip George Seaga had a multifaceated career that spanned over decades, he was very influential in the life and development of Jamaica. Edward Seaga was a very humble individual, a true visionary, a pioneer, national figure, are just few of the words used to describe this wonderful statesman. Edward Seaga otherwise known to others in the genral public as “PAPA EDDY” will surely not be forgotten but his legacy, his contributions, his establisments, and all the lives he impacted will always remain.
As we reflect on the great statesman that is Edward Seaga let us also appreciate all that he did for Jamaica this man was a true hero in the eyes and hearts of many. Edward Phillip George Seaga was born on May 28, 1930 in Boston Massachusetts, to Jamaican parents Phillip George Seaga and Erna nee Maxwell and brought home when he was 3 months old. He attened the Wolmers Boys High School in Jamaica after completing his studies here, he went off and endured further studies at one of the most prestigious Universities in the United States of America (The Harvard University) where he graduated with a degree in Social Sciences in 1952.
Edward Seaga had a personality like no other he was a serious and sharp thinker, witty and gifted in producing the apt, cutting phrases. Despite a sour look most of the times, he had a great sense of humour and was known widely for his exceptional deeds of kindness and rendering of practical assistance to the poor and needy. Jamaica has lost one of its most accomplished nation builders.
Legacy
Local constituency organization and national cultural development are two areas of particluar achievement for Edward Seaga. For forty years was successful in a constituency that no other politician was able to hold for more than five years. His transformation of depressed inner-city areas within his West Kingston constituency transformation in Jamaica. Culturally, he was the nation’s leading pioneer of ideas and institutions to promote culture, nationally and internationally.
Service
Long and impressive record of important and innovative accomplishments, beginning formally with his nomination to the Legislative Council at 29 years old, the youngest person ever to hold that membership. He was Leader of the Jamaica Labour Party since 1974. He became Prime Minister in 1980 and held office for two successive terms.
Edward Seaga contributed greatly to the development of many estbalishments and institutions in Jamaica, he was also the author of quite a few books that were bestsellers some of his books were Parent Teacher Relationship, Development of the Child, and Revival Cults. Also compiler of an album of music-Folk Music of Jamaica-recorded by Ethnic Folkways Library.