Joe Clark

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Joe Clark stands out in Canadian history not just for his brief time as Prime Minister but for the breadth of his service. He is the only Canadian Prime Minister to be awarded the Companion of the Order of Canada, the highest level of the country's civilian honour. His induction into the Canadian Political Science Association Hall of Fame recognizes his profound impact on the study and practice of governance.His diplomatic work in Cyprus, where he served as the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative, brought international acclaim to his name. The combination of his legislative achievements, such as the Access to Information Act, and his successful negotiation of complex international crises like the Iranian hostage situation cements his place as a versatile statesman.

AwardsJoe Clark has received numerous honours recognizing his service to Canada and international diplomacy. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1980 and promoted to Companion in 1993. He was inducted into the Order of Alberta in 1999 and received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. He holds honorary doctorates from the University of Calgary, University of Ottawa, and University of Lethbridge.His diplomatic work in Cyprus earned recognition from the United Nations, and he was inducted into the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame as a supporter of sport. He also holds a place in the Canadian Political Science Association Hall of Fame for his contributions to the field.

Honours & Distinctions

Companion of the Order of Canada

Government of Canada·1993

Highest level of the Order of Canada for outstanding achievement and service.

Officer of the Order of Canada

Government of Canada·1980

Recognized for distinguished service to the country.

Order of Alberta

Government of Alberta·1999

Honour for significant contribution to the province of Alberta.

Honorary Doctorate

University of Calgary·1980

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa.

Honorary Doctorate

University of Ottawa·1981

Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa.

Rankings & Lists

#12

Greatest Canadian Prime Ministers

Maclean's Survey·2015

Magazine Covers

Time Magazine

1979-06-18

Canada's New Leader

Maclean's

1976-11-15

The Young Turk

The Globe and Mail

1979-06-05

Clark Elected PM

Records & Feats

Youngest Prime Minister in Canadian History

Historic First·1979

Took office at age 39, one day before his 40th birthday.

Most Recent PM to Lose Power via Budget Defeat

Political Record·1979

Last Prime Minister to lose a non-confidence vote over a budget proposal.