Major Family Genealogy & History

Sir John Major, born on 29 March 1943, is a former British politician who served as Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservative Party from 1990 to 1997. Known for his moderate political stance and mild-mannered style, Major's tenure saw significant events such as the Gulf War, the creation of the Citizen's Charter, and pivotal contributions to the Northern Ireland peace process. Despite challenges like the European Exchange Rate Mechanism crisis and internal party divisions, he led the Conservatives to a historic electoral victory in 1992. Major stepped down as an MP in 2001, focusing on writing and charity work, and was appointed a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter in 2005.

John Major was born to Gwen Major (née Coates) and Tom Major-Ball, a former music hall performer, in St Helier, Surrey. His father was 63 years old at the time of Major's birth, and his mother passed away in 1970. Major's birth was challenging, with his mother suffering during the process. Originally christened "John Roy Major," he later used the name "John Major" professionally.

Léo Major was a distinguished Canadian soldier, renowned for being the only Canadian to receive the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM) twice in separate wars—World War II and the Korean War. His notable achievements include a daring reconnaissance mission in 1945 that spared the Dutch city of Zwolle from artillery fire and his leadership in capturing a strategic hill in Korea in 1951. Major's remarkable feats during the Battle of the Scheldt, where he single-handedly captured 93 German soldiers, further cement his legacy as an exceptional war hero.

Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, in 1921 to French Canadian parents, Léo Major moved to Montreal before his first birthday. At 14, he lived with an aunt due to a strained relationship with his father.

Stephen Ellis Garrett Jr., known as Static Major, was a renowned American R&B and hip hop producer, singer, rapper, and songwriter from Louisville, Kentucky. He gained fame for his posthumous appearance on Lil Wayne's 2008 hit "Lollipop," which topped the Billboard Hot 100. Static Major co-wrote Ginuwine's "Pony" and Aaliyah's "Are You That Somebody?" and was integral to Aaliyah's success, contributing to her 2000 single "Try Again" and her self-titled album. His innovative work with Playa and collaborations with artists like Timbaland and Pretty Ricky left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Dame Norma Christina Elizabeth Major, Lady Major, is a renowned English philanthropist, known for her substantial charity work and literary contributions. Married to former British Prime Minister Sir John Major, she maintained a low public profile during his tenure, focusing on charitable causes and authoring two books, including "Joan Sutherland: The Authorised Biography." Her dedication to philanthropy earned her the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1999. A prominent supporter of Mencap, Norma Major has been instrumental in raising £6,000,000 for the charity.

Born Norma Wagstaff in Shropshire during World War II, she is the daughter of Norman Reuel Wagstaff, a Royal Artillery Lieutenant, and Edith Georgina Wagstaff, a former umbrella saleswoman. Her father tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly after the war, and her mother subsequently reverted to her maiden name, raising Norma as Norma Johnson.