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Rory Stewart: The Man, the Myths, and the Politics
The Early Years
Rory Stewart was born in Hong Kong in 1973 to a British Army officer and a Scottish mother. He spent his early years in Malaysia and Brunei before attending Eton College and Oxford University, where he studied history.
Political Career
After graduating from Oxford, Stewart joined the Foreign Office and served in a variety of diplomatic posts around the world, including Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In 2010, he was elected as the Conservative MP for Penrith and The Border. He served in a number of ministerial roles under David Cameron and Theresa May, including Minister of State for the Middle East and Minister of State for prisons.
Independent Candidate
In 2019, Stewart stood as an independent candidate for Mayor of London. He campaigned on a platform of housing affordability, public transport, and environmentalism. He came third in the election, behind Sadiq Khan and Shaun Bailey.
Podcaster and Writer
Since leaving politics, Stewart has become a podcaster and writer. His podcast, "The Rest Is Politics," is a weekly discussion of current affairs with Alastair Campbell, the former Labour spin doctor. Stewart has also written a number of books, including "The Places in Between" and "The Marches."
Controversies
Stewart has been a controversial figure throughout his career. He has been criticized for his support of the Iraq War, his handling of the Grenfell Tower fire, and his decision to stand as an independent candidate for Mayor of London.
Personal Life
Stewart is married to Shoshana Guy, an American lawyer. They have two children.
Legacy
Rory Stewart is a complex and fascinating figure. He is a man of many contradictions: a Conservative MP who stood as an independent, a diplomat who served in war zones, and a politician who has become a podcaster and writer. His legacy is still being written, but it is clear that he is a man who has left an imprint on British politics and society.