Tim Buck

Tim Buck (1891-1973) was a prominent Canadian communist politician and labor activist. He served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Canada (CPC) from 1929 until 1962, a period encompassing the Great Depression, World War II, and the Cold War.

Born in England, Buck emigrated to Canada in 1910 and became involved in the labor movement. He was a founding member of the CPC in 1921. As General Secretary, Buck became a highly visible figure, often speaking out on issues related to workers' rights, unemployment, and social justice. He advocated for government intervention to address economic inequality and supported the Allied war effort during World War II.

Buck's leadership was marked by periods of both intense government repression and relative political acceptance. During the 1930s, the CPC was outlawed, and Buck was imprisoned for sedition. However, after the Soviet Union joined the Allies in World War II, the CPC gained legal recognition and experienced a surge in popularity.

Following his retirement as General Secretary in 1962, Buck remained active in the communist movement until his death in 1973. He is remembered as a key figure in the history of Canadian communism and the labor movement.