Boris Johnson fails the Churchill test

Synopsis

Boris Johnson's biography of Winston Churchill provides insight into his aspirations as a politician advocating for Britain's exit from the European Union. Critics argue that comparisons between Johnson and Churchill are absurd, yet some similarities exist, such as both being journalists and political mavericks. However, the differences are stark; Churchill was a child of Empire and held significant positions like First Lord of the Admiralty during World War I, while Johnson, now in his early 50s, has had a varied career but lacks Churchill's historical impact. The current political climate in Britain is not as turbulent as the 1930s, which further highlights the contrast between the two leaders. Johnson's admiration for Churchill is evident in his writings, where he suggests that Churchill recognized the threat of Hitler early on, a sentiment that resonates in today's political discussions.