Andrew Fisher: podcast appearances and interviews

Andrew Fisher (born 29 August 1862, died 22 October 1928) was an Australian politician and trade unionist who served as the fifth prime minister of Australia. Born in Crosshouse, Ayrshire, Scotland, he left school at a young age to work in coal mines and became secretary of the local miners' union at age 17. In 1885, Fisher emigrated to Australia and continued his involvement with trade unionism, settling in Gympie, Queensland. He was elected to the Queensland Legislative Assembly in 1893 as a member of the Labor Party and later served as a minister in 1899. Fisher was elected to the federal parliament in 1901 representing Wide Bay and briefly served as Minister for Trade and Customs in 1904. He became deputy leader of the Australian Labor Party in 1905 and leader in 1907. Fisher led the ALP to its first federal election victory in 1910, forming Australia's first majority government. His government implemented significant reforms including old-age and disability pensions, workers' rights legislation, and the establishment of the Commonwealth Bank. During his tenure, he also oversaw the expansion of the Royal Australian Navy, initiated the construction of the Trans-Australian Railway, and established the Australian Capital Territory. After narrowly losing the 1913 election, Fisher returned as prime minister following a double dissolution election in 1914. He served until 1915, when he resigned amidst the demands of Australia's involvement in World War I. Subsequently, he was appointed high commissioner to the United Kingdom, serving from 1916 to 1920. After returning to London, Fisher retired and died at age 66.