(CNN)Here's a look at the life of Sir John Major, former prime minister of the United Kingdom.
Personal
Birth date: March 29, 1943
Birth place: Carshalton, Surrey
Birth name: John Major
Father: Abraham Thomas Ball, stage name - Tom Major, performer
Mother: Gwen (Coates) Major, dancer
Marriage: Norma (Johnson) Major (1970-present)
Children: James and Elizabeth
Other Facts
Left school at age 16.
Worked at a bank prior to entering politics.
Timeline
1968-1971 - Member of the Lambeth Borough Council.
1974 - Unsuccessfully runs for a seat in parliament.
1979 - Wins a seat in parliament, representing Huntingdonshire.
1983 - Becomes assistant government whip.
1984 - Becomes treasury whip.
1985-1986 - Serves as undersecretary state for social security.
1986 - Is appointed minister of state for social security.
1987-1989 - Serves as chief secretary to the Treasury.
July 1989 - Is appointed foreign secretary.
October 1989 - Is appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer.
November 28, 1990 - Becomes prime minister of the United Kingdom.
1990-1997 - Serves as prime minister of the United Kingdom.
June 1995 - Resigns as the head of the Conservative Party and calls for a parliamentary election to establish leadership of the party. He wins the election.