John Major, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, may have been known for his reserved and unassuming demeanor during his time in office. However, a new biography, titled “John Major: Behind the Doors,” is shedding light on the personal life of this once powerful leader.

Published by acclaimed biographer Robert Harris, the book delves into Major’s childhood, his rise in politics, and his tumultuous time as leader of the country from 1990 to 1997. What emerges is a portrait of a man who often struggled to balance his public and private life, and the impact it had on his career and personal relationships.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the book is its exploration of Major’s upbringing. Born in 1943, he grew up in a modest working-class family in Brixton, South London. His father, Tom Major-Ball, was a circus performer, and his mother, Gwen, worked as a music hall singer. Harris reveals how this unconventional background shaped Major’s values and outlook on life.

The biography also provides insight into Major’s early political career. He joined the Conservative Party at the age of 18 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1979, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) and became Prime Minister 11 years later after the resignation of Margaret Thatcher.

However, it was Major’s time as Prime Minister where his personal life began to unravel. The book delves into the details of his affair with Edwina Currie, a fellow MP and government minister. The scandal shocked the public and put a strain on Major’s marriage to his wife, Norma, whom he had been married to for over 20 years.

Harris also sheds light on Major’s relationship with his father-in-law, Sir Tom King, a former Defense Secretary. Sir Tom was an influential figure in Major’s life and helped guide him through his early political career. However, their relationship soured in the later years, and Harris reveals the tensions that arose between them.

The book also touches on Major’s struggles with mental health during his term as Prime Minister. In a candid interview, Major admits that he suffered from depression and feelings of inadequacy, which were exacerbated by the constant media scrutiny and political turmoil.

Ultimately, “John Major: Behind the Doors” provides a humanizing portrayal of a man who was often seen as detached and bland by the public. It reveals the complexities of his character and how his personal struggles often impacted his decisions as a leader.

The biography has already received praise for its well-researched and honest approach to portraying Major’s life. It has also sparked debates about the ethics of digging into a person’s personal life, especially when they are no longer in the public eye.

In response, Harris has stated that he believes it is important to understand the personal lives of our leaders, as it often shapes their decisions and actions in office. He also hopes that the book will provide a deeper understanding of Major as a person, beyond his political achievements.

“John Major: Behind the Doors” is a must-read for anyone interested in British politics and the personal life of one of its most enigmatic leaders. It offers a balanced and thought-provoking account of a man who faced both triumphs and challenges in his personal and professional life.

As Major himself has said, “I can’t rewrite the history of my life, but I can narrate my life as it was, and perhaps it will help people to understand me better.” With this new biography, Major’s story is finally being fully told, and readers can judge for themselves the man behind the closed doors of 10 Downing Street.